staff profile: Jonathan Camac
Mr. Camac, one of our PE teachers, is beloved by students for his caring and friendly teaching style. He creates an inclusive and engaging environment, making physical education a favorite class for many. His genuine interest in each student's well-being and development sets him apart as an exceptional educator. We asked him how he became a teacher and to share some of his experiences.
How did you choose to become a teacher and why PE?
Ultimately, I believe I have been led here by my Father. But the day-to-day of the past years has not been straightforward. I essentially signed up to my teaching degree because some significant figures in my life said I might make a good teacher. Through university I was not entirely sure I wanted to teach. The people in my university classes were already so passionate about teaching, and I was not quite there with them yet. But every time I went out on placement to a school, I loved it. So I kept going - and I am glad I did.
Physical Education is so valuable in many ways. Research paper after research paper keep coming out and speaking to the importance of moving our bodies - for physical, mental, social and emotional health. Further, I see physical education as a playing field for life - for improving qualities and understandings such as leadership, resilience, teamwork, ethics, discipline and goal setting just to name a few. On top of all this, it is great fun! I really enjoy working to make my lessons as enjoyable and accessible as possible for everyone. I love how sport (at its best) can bring people together into community - in ways that few other things can.
What’s a fun or impacting memory of your teaching career so far?
The most fun and impacting memories are all of the students. I never thought (through university in particular) that I would enjoy going to work as much as I do. Knowing the students and who I am turning up to see and teach everyday is very motivating. Classroom life is a blast! I often pray that God would show me the different strengths and abilities of my students, and help me unearth them. But truly they never feel far from the surface. It is such a privilege to join them for a time on their journey of life - and speak into it where possible.
If I had to pick one specific type of memory, it would be of the camps or sporting carnivals. I really enjoy the process of bringing two groups of young people together (from Aldinga and Morphett Vale) to experience something new (camps) or to achieve something great (sporting carnivals). Seeing them apply themselves and put into practice some of those life skills is very rewarding for me. I love being part of those big moments.
You get to have lunch with someone from the past 1000 years - who do you pick and why?
Big question - last 1000 years! I would love to have dinner with Ned Kelly or Dietrich Bonhoeffer for different reasons. But without doubt if I had to pick one person, I would have dinner with Teresea Munyard. My wife often mentions things she misses about her Mum. As such, I often feel like there is a huge part of my wife and her family that I don't understand (or am able to fully appreciate) because I never really knew Teresea. We have watched old family videos together (that are hilarious) and seen some other memories, but it isn't the same. Because of the hope I have in Jesus, I will see her again. But that feels too far away!
