Teaching is more than a profession for Early Career Teacher Jess Webb

For Year 2 Teacher Jess Webb from Notre Dame College Bells Creek, teaching has always felt like a calling.

Growing up in a family of educators, Jess discovered early on her passion for teaching and the opportunity it provides to nurture, inspire and create a sense of belonging for every student who walks through her classroom door.

That passion and dedication was recently recognised at Brisbane Catholic Education's Excellence Awards (Friday 14 August), where Jess received the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Award for Excellence as an Early Career Teacher in Primary School.

Guided by the College's mission and her aspiration to "be like Mary" for her students, Jess brings care, compassion and excellence to every aspect of her work.

“I love the curiosity, joy and honesty that children bring to the classroom each day,” shared Jess. 

“I feel very lucky that my job allows me to spend my days with 30 little people who are constantly asking questions, sharing ideas and finding excitement in the world around them.

“My greatest hope is to give every student the skills and confidence to love learning.

“Regardless of their starting point or achievement level, I want them to leave my classroom with strong foundations and the belief that they are capable of continuing to grow throughout their schooling.” 
 
Known for her thoughtful planning and student-centred approach, Jess delivers engaging learning experiences that challenge, support and inspire every learner.

"Students thrive under Jess' care because they know they are valued, supported and capable of success," shared Foundation Principal Dan McShea.

“Through a combination of explicit instruction, hands-on learning opportunities and differentiated teaching strategies, she ensures students are equipped to achieve their personal best."
 
Jess' influence extends far beyond her classroom.

She has played a key role in designing and implementing a team-teaching model across three year levels, strengthening differentiation, consistency and collaboration among staff while enhancing learning outcomes for students.

As co-founder of the College's STEAM Club, Jess has created meaningful opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop new skills and showcase their strengths.

Jess has also demonstrated leadership in curriculum design, developing a Religion unit aligned with the College's Formation, Wellbeing and Engagement Plan. 

The initiative reflects her deep understanding of Catholic identity and her commitment to nurturing students' faith and spiritual growth.

“In a short time, Jess has made a significant impact on our students, staff and wider College community,” shared Principal Dan. 

“As we celebrate World Teachers' Day, Jess is a wonderful example of the dedication, passion and commitment that make teachers so important in the lives of young people."

Learn more about Jess Webb:

Favourite book? My favourite book of all time is actually a children’s book, Ellie’s Dragon by Bob Graham. There is something so tender and nostalgic about it, particularly in the way it captures childhood imagination, growing up and the special things we carry with us along the way.

Favourite subject to teach? Definitely literacy, particularly reading, writing and spelling.

Coffee order?  I am a big coffee girl and love a good dirty chai latte. However, I often find myself changing my order before school, just to keep things interesting!

A teacher who inspired you? I grew up with two parents who are teachers, and I have admired their dedication and the difference they make for as long as I can remember. I was also fortunate to grow up surrounded by family friends who were educators and who have continued to encourage and support me throughout my own career.

What's one thing that makes you smile every day? Sometimes it is a student excitedly telling me about something that happened at home, showing me a tiny treasure they found or simply greeting me with a big smile. Those small moments of connection are often the best part of my day.

Hobbies outside of work? I am a very outdoorsy person and love going for walks, hikes, runs and bike rides around the neighbourhood. I also enjoy catching up with friends over coffee and spending time near the water.

For more information about Notre Dame College, Bells Creek or to enrol click here. 

Find a Catholic school on the Sunshine Coast today! Click here.

About Queensland World Teachers’ Day

Queensland World Teachers' Day is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and applaud our teachers for the important role they play in our communities and for the positive impact they have on the lives of students. This year’s Queensland theme is teachers change lives.

This year’s BCE theme is a message directly from our students ‘Thank you for believing in us,’ and throughout October, our school communities are invited to share messages of gratitude.

If you would like to thank a staff member at a BCE school, share your appreciation on your school’s Gratitude Wall, take a photo and tag BCE on social media using #ThanksBCEStaff and #WTDQLD.

Image caption: Notre Dame College, Bells Creek Year 2 teacher and BCE Excellence Award winner Jess Webb. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).