Former youth justice worker turned teacher, Natalie Rayner is making a profound difference in the lives of vulnerable Brisbane students who are at risk of disengaging from education. Using her knowledge and skills, as well as her passion for closing learning gaps for young people, she mentors students toward achieving their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).

Now in her third year of teaching at Queensland Pathways State College (QPSC), Ms Rayner came to the profession from the Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs where she worked in various youth justice roles.

She has been praised by college staff for setting an example for more experienced peers, for building relationships, de-escalating complex situations and creating a calm, peaceful learning environment - far beyond what is usually expected of a third year teacher.

At QPSC, many students experience complex challenges both in and out of the classroom.

“For many students, especially those who disengage from mainstream schooling, there’s often something going on just under the surface,” said Ms Rayner.

“This directly and sometimes significantly impacts their learning.”

With extensive training in Trauma Informed Practice, Restorative Justice and cultural capability and awareness, Ms Rayner took on a role as Learning and Pathways Mentor as well as her regular teaching duties.

She guides students through their entire QPSC journey, helping them overcome negative views of education and a lack of confidence.

She analyses literacy, numeracy and wellbeing data, along with academic and transition goals, and collaborates with each student, their stakeholders and any outside support agencies to help them succeed.

“Having goals identified by each student gives them a voice in their individual journey and allows me to better understand what drives them to turn up to school each day,” Ms Rayner said.

This practice, she says, is particularly beneficial for First Nations students as she assists them in connecting with their community and receiving culturally appropriate knowledge and guidance.

She has also developed positive relationships with Registered Training Organisations to provide students with recognised study opportunities. QPSC students now have the option of studying a Certificate III in Aviation (Drone Piloting) and a Certificate II in Horticulture, thanks to her drive in this area.

Her results with students have been inspirational.

Working together, one student's attendance rate increased from 10% to 80% and their literacy, numeracy and wellbeing significantly improved.

Another student referred to the college from the youth justice system will graduate with their QCE and vocational qualification this year.

“I’ve witnessed students transform from avoiding eye-contact, isolating themselves and struggling to concentrate on their coursework, to go on and speak on stage with confidence and determination at our graduation ceremonies,” Ms Rayner said.

“Knowing I’m directly contributing to a positive, happy and safe place where some of our most vulnerable students can learn is what inspires me to be a better teacher every day.”

Ms Rayner is a finalist at the Queensland College of Teachers TEACHX Awards, in the Excellence in Beginning to Teach category.

Winners will be announced October 27th, on the eve of World Teachers' Day in Queensland.