02 Jun 2026
For Niamh Allan, teaching has always been more than a career aspiration - it’s a lifelong calling shaped by inspiring mentors and a deep desire to make a difference.
Now in her second year of teaching at Stella Maris School Maroochydore, Niamh’s journey from Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) student to educator has been supported by BCE’s Teach, Challenge and Transform Tomorrow Scholarship.
In this interview, she reflects on the moments that sparked her passion, the support that guided her into the profession, and the rewards of teaching within the BCE community.
What inspired you to pursue a career in teaching?
I have wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl. I was very fortunate to have some wonderful teachers throughout my time at school at Unity College Caloundra, and I wanted to make others feel safe, valued, and excited to come to school, just as many of my teachers made me feel.
When I was in Year 2, my teacher told me about St Mary MacKillop, and I thought she was the “bees' knees” - the most amazing person. I remember having a conversation with my mum where I said I wanted to be just like her, and she explained one way I could do that was by becoming a teacher.
What did receiving the BCE scholarship during your university studies mean to you at the time?
When I received the email advising that I had been successful in receiving the BCE Teach, Challenge, Transform Tomorrow Teaching Scholarship for 2024, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief, gratitude, and support from BCE.
As a BCE alumna from Prep to Year 12, I was incredibly excited to continue my journey in education, this time as a teacher, within the BCE community. Not only did the scholarship provide financial support during my final year of university in 2024, I also felt confidently prepared when applying and interviewing for my first graduate position as a classroom teacher. I continued to feel its lasting impact when reapplying to continue my contract at Stella Maris for 2026.
What do you love most about teaching in a BCE school?
If I could sum up teaching and being part of a BCE school in one word, I would use the term ‘gather’. Each day, I arrive at school feeling welcomed, heard, and genuinely encouraged. There are very few work environments that so naturally bring people together in a way that ensures staff feel valued and supported, and Stella Maris does this exceptionally well.
What advice would you give to students considering applying for the BCE scholarship?
Before I went in for my interview, I was extremely nervous. It was my first official interview in my new profession. I rang my mum and she said to me, “What have you got to lose?” I am so glad she reminded me of that. Everything that came with this opportunity was a valuable learning experience. It builds confidence, encourages reflection, and helps you articulate your passion for teaching early in your career.
The level of support you receive as a scholarship recipient is just a glimpse into the rich teaching, learning, hurdles and successes you will experience as a teacher in a BCE school. It is a truly supportive and inspiring pathway into the profession.
Apply for a BCE teaching scholarship today
BCE’s teaching scholarships support the next generation of educators who are ready to teach, challenge and transform tomorrow’s learners.
As part of Queensland’s largest Catholic school system, BCE teachers join a community of more than 14,000 staff across over 140 schools, backed by mentoring, professional development and access to leading technologies.
These scholarships offer financial support, connection to an inclusive community, and guidance to grow both academically and professionally - empowering future teachers to make a lasting impact.
Discover our current teaching scholarship opportunities here.
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