Ms Jodie Fyfe teaches maths and science in Hillcrest Christian College’s Virtual Learning Community. She shares her perspective on teaching – and learning – in a virtual environment.WhichSchool?: When did you commence in your position/role at the school?
Ms Fyfe: I started at Hillcrest in 2022 and transitioned to teaching in the Virtual Learning Community (VLC) in 2023. The College’s VLC is redefining education by blending personalised learning plans, daily teacher interactions, and Christ-centred values. By providing flexible schedules and opportunities for on-campus social interactions and co-curricular activities, Hillcrest VLC empowers students to flourish academically and personally. As a teacher, it’s an honour to be part of a team dedicated to creating a nurturing, innovative, and faith-driven environment where every student can thrive. Whether balancing personal goals, excelling academically, or developing lifelong skills, Hillcrest VLC prepares students to make a meaningful impact in God’s world.
WS: What are the top three highlights you’ve experienced as a teacher at the school?
Ms Fyfe:
- Seeing students flourish in academics and beyond.
One of my greatest joys as a teacher at Hillcrest is watching students thrive, and balancing their academic responsibilities while also pursuing personal passions. The flexibility offered by Hillcrest VLC allows students to dedicate time to extracurricular activities, ensuring they succeed both academically and personally. - Inspiring a love for learning
A standout moment for me was seeing one of my students embrace advanced learning. She initially completed extra Maths tasks for fun, and her enthusiasm for learning has led her to complete accelerated Maths subjects and even start university courses. This kind of personalised success story is a testament to the tailored learning opportunities available through Hillcrest VLC. - Supporting personal goals through flexible learning
The unique flexibility of Hillcrest’s Virtual Learning Community has allowed students to achieve their dreams outside the classroom. Whether pursuing basketball, dance, or other passions, VLC empowers students to structure their education around their goals, creating opportunities that traditional schooling might not allow.
WS: What makes Hillcrest’s virtual learning unique?
Ms Fyfe: Hillcrest Christian College, and specifically its Virtual Learning Community (VLC), stands out for its ability to cater to individual student needs:
- Tailored learning plans: VLC provides personalised education through individualised learning plans, fostering independence, accountability, and academic excellence. This flexibility allows students to study at their own pace and focus on areas of interest while still meeting academic requirements.
- Social connections and wellbeing: Even in a virtual setting, Hillcrest prioritises social interaction. Life Groups and Pastoral Care sessions promote social connection, mental wellbeing, and a sense of community. Students gain support not only academically, but emotionally and spiritually, ensuring they are prepared for all aspects of life.
WS: Why is Hillcrest a great place to teach?
Ms Fyfe: Teaching at Hillcrest is truly rewarding for several reasons:
- Christ-centred values: The integration of Christian values into the teaching philosophy fosters an environment of love, purpose, and faith. It’s inspiring to work in a community that actively seeks to glorify God in education.
- Meaningful relationships: The relationships formed between teachers and students—and among staff—are unparalleled. Teachers work closely with students to help them succeed, both academically and personally.
- Creating well-rounded individuals: Hillcrest focuses on developing not just students but successful, purpose-driven individuals. By combining academic excellence with skill development through the SECRET Skills framework, Hillcrest ensures students are prepared to excel in all areas of life.
WS: What are the challenges of virtual learning?
Ms Fyfe: While Hillcrest Virtual Learning Community (VLC) offers unparalleled flexibility and personalised learning, it’s important to acknowledge some of the challenges students may face and how Hillcrest supports them in overcoming these obstacles:
- Online connectivity: One of my concerns with online learning was what happens when occasional disruptions arise, such as issues with a remote learner’s internet connection. It’s comforting to experience that the VLC has a robust platform supported by both a comprehensive Learning Management System and Microsoft Teams.
With recorded lessons, interactive resources, and daily teacher support, students can revisit materials anytime, ensuring learning is uninterrupted. This gives families confidence in a flexible, accessible, and personalised education—no matter where they are or what challenges arise. - Staying engaged: Virtual learning requires self-discipline and motivation, which can sometimes be a challenge for students. Hillcrest addresses this by integrating the SECRET Skills framework to build critical skills like resilience, time management, and accountability. Daily one-on-one teacher interactions also help students stay connected and motivated.
- Social connections across distances: With students located across Australia and even internationally, creating meaningful social connections can be complex. However, Hillcrest VLC fosters community through regular online Life Groups, interactive activities, and optional on-campus events where students can engage with peers and build relationships.
WS: Tell us about your approach or philosophy to teaching?
Ms Fyfe: At Hillcrest, my teaching philosophy is grounded in a Christ-centred approach that prioritises student wellbeing, curiosity, and real-world applications of learning. By integrating faith and values into the curriculum, I strive to inspire students to connect their education with their purpose in God’s world.
Through engaging lessons tailored to individual needs, Hillcrest VLC equips students with the knowledge, critical thinking, and resilience required to thrive academically and personally. Whether in Maths, Science, or life in general, my goal is to empower students to serve their communities and positively impact the world.
WS: Did you have a teacher that inspired you? Tell us about them, and how they inspired you.
Ms Fyfe: One of my greatest inspirations is Jacqueline Wilton, a trailblazer in education and leadership. Her career spans roles such as teacher, Head of Department, Deputy Principal, and CEO at the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA). Jacqueline’s commitment to addressing educational inequality and driving large-scale curriculum reforms in Queensland has had a transformative impact. Her vision for strategic leadership, collaboration, and capability-building has been instrumental in shaping educational policy and practice, exemplifying the profound difference an educator can make.
More reading: Principally Speaking: Relationships matter most at Hillcrest
