MITCHELL FA'OA
Sydney
Summary
Professional educator with a strong background in HSIE and Aboriginal Studies. Skilled at fostering cultural understanding, respect, and empowerment among students. Adept at leveraging diverse instructional strategies to meet varied learning needs, ensuring educational goals align with the aspirations of young adults. Passionate about applying evidence-based strategies to support positive behaviour that create meaningful pathways and opportunities that lay the foundation for lifelong success. Known for collaborative approach with colleagues and adaptability in ever-evolving educational settings, with focus on critical thinking and communication.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
SLSO - Teacher
Goal College
07.2025 - Current
- Developed engaging lesson alterations for students who struggle to engage in traditional learning environments
- Implemented assessment tools to evaluate student progress and understanding with curriculum and self-regulation
- Collaborated with colleagues to enhance teaching approaches
- Analysed student performance data to support self-directed academic improvement
Musician/Producer
01.2015 - Current
- Founded and developed an indie-alternative wedding entertainment collective, which has grown to include multiple artists through ongoing success and demand
- Performed at over 100 weddings, delivering tailored live music experiences ranging from high-energy sets to ambient, atmospheric performances
- Proficient in Ableton Live, rhythm guitar, lead vocals, and harmonies
Behaviour Support Practitioner
Iris Collective
01.2023 - 12.2023
- Worked casually as a Behaviour Support Practitioner (BSP), shadowing experienced practitioners and observing behaviours in adult support settings
- Collected and analysed behavioural data to inform Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBA) and develop personalised support plans
- Experience in analysing both direct and indirect data to identify the function of an individual's target behaviour within a stakeholder team
- Currently studying Behaviour Support online through Flinders University to expand knowledge and enhance skills in Positive Behaviour Support and intervention
High School Teacher
St Bishoy College
01.2019 - 12.2022
- Experienced HSIE teacher specialising in Stages 4 - 6 History, Geography, Modern History, and Aboriginal Studies
- Co-ordinated a Learning Support program for Years 7-12, including EAL/D students within mainstream classes
- Developed Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) in collaboration with key stakeholders, resulting in measurable improvements in academic performance and student engagement
- Delivered targeted literacy support sessions for small groups, strengthening students' reading, writing, and communication skills
- Mentored disengaged male students through the '180 Rite of Passage' program, and contributed to whole-school professional development on boys' education to support its integration across the high school
AIME Mentor
AIME
01.2015 - 12.2019
- Collaborated with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to set individual learning and behavioural goals aligned with their personal aspirations
- Supported students in developing academic confidence, communication skills, and cultural pride to help close the educational gap (no shame at AIME)
- Contributed to creating a safe and empowering mentoring environment through consistent guidance and positive relationship-building
Full-Time Missionary
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
09.2012 - 09.2014
- Oversaw the operations and scheduling for a team of 300 missionaries across Queensland, coordinating community service activities under the mentorship of the State President
- Designed and delivered training programs for small and large groups, focusing on religious teachings and community engagement strategies across Queensland
- Managed logistics and communication between volunteers and leadership to maintain smooth operations and high participation rates
Education
Master of Teaching -
University of Sydney
Sydney, NSW12.2019
Graduate Certificate in Positive Behaviour Support - undefined
Flinders University
Online01.2026
Bachelor of Arts -
University of Wollongong
Wollongong, NSW12.2017
Engaging in Positive Behaviour Support Practices - undefined
Monash University
Online11.2023
Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Certificate - undefined
Cornell University
07.2022
Skills
- Educational platforms (Compass, Sentral, FLO, Canvas)
- Effective communication
- Patience & empathy
- Team collaboration
- Relationship building
- Critical thinking
- Student engagement
- Growth mindset
Languages
Spanish | elementary
English | native
Timeline
SLSO - Teacher
Goal College
07.2025 - Current
Behaviour Support Practitioner
Iris Collective
01.2023 - 12.2023
High School Teacher
St Bishoy College
01.2019 - 12.2022
Musician/Producer
01.2015 - Current
AIME Mentor
AIME
01.2015 - 12.2019
Full-Time Missionary
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
09.2012 - 09.2014
Graduate Certificate in Positive Behaviour Support - undefined
Flinders University
Engaging in Positive Behaviour Support Practices - undefined
Monash University
Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Certificate - undefined
Cornell University
Master of Teaching -
University of Sydney
Bachelor of Arts -
University of Wollongong