BCE teacher librarians craft new chapter for St Columba’s library

8/10/2024

​​Lisa Irwin (left) Nena Morgante (right) ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2024).

St Columba's Primary School Wilston’s library is turning a new page thanks to the innovative efforts of two teacher librarians.  
  
Nena Morgante and Lisa Irwin are not only transforming the traditional library space into a vibrant, hands-on learning hub, where students explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) alongside their love of books.   
  
But they are also shelving old ideas about what a library should look like.  
  
Ahead of World Teachers’ Day (Friday 25 October) Nena and Lisa shared that they have introduced STEAM-focused tinkering programs, which see students from Year 1 to 5 deconstruct and reconstruct technology like keyboards, explore circuits alongside literature, learn about how solar power and lights work, and design technology.  
  
Teacher Librarian Nena Morgante said the tinkering programs fostered hands-on learning, creativity, and problem-solving skills among learners.  
  
“Libraries used to be for quiet learning, but we’re transforming our library into vibrant spaces where students can actively engage, explore, and innovate,” she said.  
  
“While tinkering, students are developing critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork skills, all while learning how they can solve problems, skills they will need now and into the future.  
  
“This hands-on experience not only equips them with the tools to tackle real-world problems but also instils a commitment to making a difference in their communities.   
  
“By linking these activities to our Catholic social teachings, we’re nurturing a generation that will not only approach the world’s problems with technical expertise and know how but also with a strong sense of purpose and a desire to serve others.   
  
“Our goal is to empower students to be innovative problem-solvers who are ready to make a positive impact on the world.”  
  
Teacher Librarian Lisa Irwin said one of the greatest joys of being a teacher librarian was the opportunity to work with students across all year levels.  
  
“It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the growth of students over the years, guiding them through their first steps into the world of reading,” she said.  
  
“We can help spark that curiosity early on and continue to nurture student interests as they progress.  
  
"Alongside our STEAM programs, we remain deeply committed to fostering a love of literature in our students.   
  
“There’s nothing quite like seeing a child’s eyes light up when they discover a new favourite book.”   
  
Nena and Lisa’s approach to library learning is reshaping the physical space.   
  
They’re eagerly anticipating the upcoming St Columba’s Primary School library extension, which will feature a state-of-the-art STEAM lab, new resources, and flexible furniture to support various learning activities.  
  
BCE employees work in a wide range of teaching and non-teaching roles that support Catholic traditions and contribute to developing socially just young people who embrace sustainability and make positive contributions to the modern world.   
  
Our staff are inspiring an education to believe in. Click here to apply for a career at BCE.   
  
For more information about St Columba’s Primary School Wilston or to enrol click here.  
  
For more information about St Columba’s library upgrade click here.  ​

Queensland World Teachers' Day 25 October 2024: 
 

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’ Make a Difference. If you would like to thank a staff member at a BCE school, share your appreciation via our virtual message board. ​



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