Shaping young minds: Elizabeth Watson’s path to the Prep classroom

From as early as she can remember, Elizabeth Watson dreamed of becoming a teacher. Today, as a second‑year Prep teacher at St Patrick’s Primary School Nanango, she is living that dream. 

A recipient of Brisbane Catholic Education’s Teach, Challenge and Transform Tomorrow Scholarship, Elizabeth reflects on her journey as an Early Career Teacher and the experiences that shaped her path into the classroom.

What inspired you to pursue a career in teaching? 

I really value the role of teachers, and from as early as I can remember, I have always wanted to be one! I have a love of learning, and I hope I can instill this love of learning into the littlest people in our school! Learning can take many different forms, and I think it is important to recognise that learning looks different for everyone. My favourite thing is seeing students’ smiles! I really enjoy seeing students feel happy, proud, and confident about their learning. I also love hearing students share their learning with their families. I believe in building positive parent partnerships. I see families as a vital component of the Prep learning journey!  

How did you first hear about the BCE scholarship program and what stage of your studies or career were you in when you applied? 

I applied for the Teach, Challenge and Transform Tomorrow Teaching Scholarship during my third year of university. After a wonderful placement at a rural BCE school, I felt excited to have the opportunity to become part of a profession that shapes future generations. More specifically, I really value and appreciate rural spaces. I felt a pull to be connected to BCE, as the scholarship focuses on a commitment to teaching at rural and regional schools. 

What did receiving the BCE scholarship mean to you at the time? 

I felt so appreciative of the scholarship! Most importantly, the scholarship supported me with university expenses, plus enabled me to build a connection to a supportive professional community.  

What do you love most about teaching in a BCE school? 

Something so special about BCE schools, more specifically rural schools, is the ‘community’. There is a beautiful sense of warmth! I feel really lucky to learn and walk alongside the St Patrick’s community. In our Prep class we are a team, and there are many pieces to our puzzle, including our teacher aides, and beautiful parents and carers. We work and learn alongside each other to achieve success!  

What advice would you give to students considering applying for the BCE scholarship? 

Go for it, a wonderful opportunity is waiting for you! The BCE scholarship supported me to become the Prep teacher I have always wanted to be! Learning alongside the little people makes my heart feel so warm.  

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.

Image caption: St Patrick’s Primary School, Nanango teacher Elizabeth Watson with her Prep students. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Patrick's Primary School, Nanango (2026).