At PBC, there are many teachers whose impact goes far beyond the classroom. Paul Bullpitt is one of them. Having spent more than three decades working with young people and the past 10 years at PBC, Paul brings experience, humour and a genuine passion for helping students navigate their school years.
Interestingly, Paul did not always plan to become a teacher. His journey into education took an unexpected path, shaped by his own experiences as a student and a desire to support young people in ways he felt were sometimes missing when he was at school.
We sat down with Paul to learn more about his journey, what motivates him as an educator, and the advice that has stayed with him throughout his career.
How did you get into teaching?
I actually fell into teaching after potentially being one of the most over-qualified employees at the Tugun drive-through bottle shop. Ironically, I struggled to engage as a student and, if not for sport, I may not have lasted until Year 12. I also struggled to find a teacher that inspired me, and this is probably why I have found myself in the roles I have done over the years.
What do you enjoy most about working with students?
Being able to do what we do is such a privilege, helping students navigate their way through what can be a very difficult time in their life. The last 35 years has taught me that many young people are often left to do the best they can with situations that are not always in their control or of their own making.
My job has also taught me that we are all products of our lived experience, and sometimes having someone there as support can make the world of difference.
How would you describe your approach to teaching?
I always try to make school and learning fun, and I’m still a big kid at heart. I genuinely still love working with young people and try not to take myself too seriously.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
The best advice I was given was that “calm is contagious”. You never really know what someone is going through.
What has your experience at PBC been like?
PBC is a great school and has been an amazing place to come to every day over the last 10 years. As someone who lives in the local community, I love running into ex-students and hearing where life has taken them.
Looking back, what does teaching mean to you?
I’m not sure what I would have done if I wasn’t a teacher, but I’m genuinely grateful that I have been able to do what I do each day for so long.
