Melissa ( Mel ) Newton
SANCTUARY POINT
Summary
Experienced educator with over 20 years across Ghana, Portugal, Canberra, and NSW, specialising in inquiry-based learning through IB and Australian curricula. I’ve led professional development in mathematics pedagogy and PYP teaching, and embed trauma-informed, wellbeing-focused strategies using Berry Street and Resilience Project frameworks. Currently completing a Diploma of Counselling and working as a Lifeline Crisis Supporter, I bring strong mental health insight to education
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Classroom Teacher
Deparment Of Education
Nowra, NSW
07.2023 - Current
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Assessed student performance through various evaluation methods, providing constructive feedback.
- Managed classroom behaviour effectively, creating a positive learning environment for all students.
- Participated in professional development workshops to refine teaching strategies and methodologies.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects enhancing cross-curricular connections.
Classroom Teacher
Department Of Education- ACT
Canberra, ACT
07.2017 - 07.2023
- Analyzed student performance data to drive instructional improvements and interventions.
- Led professional development workshops focused on best practices in teaching methodologies.
- Utilized educational technology tools to enhance instructional delivery and student engagement, and trained staff in technology use.
- Mentored new teachers entering the profession and provided constructive feedback on their teaching methods, promoting growth within the school community.
- Led in-house professional development in mathematics pedagogy
- Delivered internal training on the Primary Years Programme (PYP)
- Integrated evidence-based practices including The Resilience Project and Berry Street Education Model and Project Based learning
- Supported colleagues in trauma-informed and inclusive classroom practices
Primary Lead Teacher
St. Julian's International School
Carcevellos, Portugal
09.2010 - 04.2017
- Delivered concept- and inquiry-based curriculum aligned to the PYP framework
- Facilitated project-based learning driven by student interests and skills development
- Led professional development in PYP teaching practices for colleagues
- Contributed to school-wide initiatives aimed at improving overall student achievement, participating in professional development workshops and collaborating with colleagues on best practices.
Primary Lead Teacher
St Dominic's International School
Sao Domingos Da Rana, Portugal.
01.2005 - 08.2010
- Delivered concept- and inquiry-based curriculum aligned to the PYP framework
- Led professional development in PYP teaching practices for colleagues
- Mentored new teachers, providing guidance on curriculum design and classroom management strategies.
- Participated in professional development workshops to continuously improve instructional practices.
- Led school-wide initiatives to integrate social-emotional learning into daily activities.
- Utilized various teaching tools and technologies to support diverse learning styles.
- Assessed student progress through formal and informal evaluations, adjusting instruction as needed.
Classroom Teacher
Okodee Education Centre - Primary School
Koforidua, Ghana
01.2004 - 06.2004
- Developed foundational literacy and numeracy in a cross-cultural environment
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Fostered positive classroom environment to enhance student learning and collaboration.
- Utilized a variety of instructional strategies to meet diverse student needs.
Education
Bachelor of Education - Education
Charles Sturt University
Albury, NSW05.2004
Diploma of Counseling - Counseling Psychology
Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Parramatta, NSW10-2025
Certificate - Mental Health- Crisis Supporter
Lifeline
Wollongong, NSW02-2025
Professional Development
VariousSkills
- Student-Centred & Inquiry-Based Teaching
Skilled in designing and delivering concept-driven, student-led learning using IB and Australian curriculum frameworks - Mathematics Pedagogy Leadership
Trained dispositional leader in mathematics; led professional development to enhance numeracy teaching practices - Trauma-Informed and Positive Education Practice
Implemented Berry Street and Resilience Project frameworks to support student wellbeing and engagement - Crisis Support & Mental Health First Response
Lifeline-trained crisis supporter with skills in active listening, de-escalation, and emotional regulation
- Professional Development Facilitation
Designed and led training in mathematics pedagogy, PYP, and wellbeing frameworks for school staff and peers - Cross-Cultural Communication
Taught internationally (Ghana, Portugal, Australia), with strong intercultural awareness and adaptive teaching skills - Educational Program & Unit Planning
Skilled in designing integrated learning experiences focused on deep conceptual understanding and transferable skills - Counselling Foundations and Therapeutic Communication
Progressing through Diploma of Counselling with practical application of communication and empathy-based approaches
Timeline
Classroom Teacher
Deparment Of Education
07.2023 - Current
Classroom Teacher
Department Of Education- ACT
07.2017 - 07.2023
Primary Lead Teacher
St. Julian's International School
09.2010 - 04.2017
Primary Lead Teacher
St Dominic's International School
01.2005 - 08.2010
Classroom Teacher
Okodee Education Centre - Primary School
01.2004 - 06.2004
Bachelor of Education - Education
Charles Sturt University
Diploma of Counseling - Counseling Psychology
Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Certificate - Mental Health- Crisis Supporter
Lifeline
Professional Development