NATALIE ANNE LAWAND
Balmain,NSW
Summary
Experienced coordinator with strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results. Skilled in project management, communication, and problem-solving. Known for flexibility with changing needs and reliability in delivering outcomes. Prepared to make significant impact in dynamic environment.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Coordinator of the Gifted and Talented Education Years 7-12
The Scots College
01.2022 - Current
- Provided support and guidance to Senior School staff in developing and implementing programs that addressed the learning needs of students with high intellectual potential.
- Designed and delivered challenging, intrinsically motivating academic programs for students with high intellectual potential and multiple diagnoses.
- Supported classroom teachers in applying personalised learning practices and implementing genuinely differentiated curricula and assessments.
- Led initiatives to enhance student engagement through innovative enrichment programs, including Stutorials — student-led tutorials where high-achieving academic leaders mentored younger peers.
- Collected and analysed student data, generated reports, and produced tracking documents to monitor progress and learning outcomes.
- Collaborated with Deans, Heads of Department, School Counsellors, and classroom and specialist teachers to develop differentiated programs for students across the ability spectrum, including those with learning difficulties, behavioural challenges, and multiple diagnoses.
- Co-created and regularly reviewed Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and Learner Profiles (LPs) with staff, counsellors, and parents, ensuring these were communicated and implemented effectively.
- Met weekly with students to provide coaching and support for executive functioning and organisational skills.
- Contributed feedback to the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) through participation in the Gifted Reference Group, providing input to curriculum development under the NSW Curriculum Review.
- Delivered conference presentations for the Mathematics Association of NSW (MANSW) on differentiation and best practices for supporting gifted learners.
- Presented a case study for The Hatchery and participated in panel sessions designed to educate, inform, and strengthen professional networks within the education sector.
Teacher of Year 7 Science and Years 7&8 Mathematics
The Scots College
01.2022 - Current
- Planned and implemented coherent, well-sequenced teaching and learning programs that engaged students and promoted academic growth.
- Delivered high-quality lessons using diverse, evidence-based teaching strategies responsive to individual learning strengths and needs.
- Employed effective verbal and non-verbal communication techniques to enhance student understanding, engagement, and achievement.
- Applied assessment feedback and data analysis to refine instructional practices and improve learning outcomes.
- Integrated ICT and digital tools to enhance curriculum delivery and foster interactive learning experiences.
- Created inclusive, supportive classroom environments that encouraged collaboration, respect, and belonging.
- Developed engaging lesson plans tailored to a wide range of learning styles and abilities.
- Fostered positive classroom culture promoting student collaboration, confidence, and mutual respect.
- Assessed student performance using formative and summative tools, providing timely and targeted feedback for continuous improvement.
- Led professional development workshops on innovative teaching methods and effective assessment strategies.
- Implemented data-driven approaches to identify learning needs and inform differentiated instruction.
- Built strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues through open communication and a supportive approach to learning.
- Managed classroom behaviour effectively by setting clear expectations, modelling positive conduct, and maintaining consistent consequences.
- Adapted teaching methods, materials, and pacing to accommodate diverse learning requirements.
- Prepared and administered quizzes, tests, and examinations to evaluate student learning and guide future instruction.
- Fostered curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
- Met with students, parents, and administrators to address behavioural or academic concerns constructively.
- Managed challenging behaviour with consistency, empathy, and restorative strategies.
Coordinator of the Prep Honours Program
The Scots College, Preparatory School
01.2015 - 12.2022
- Advocated for and supported differentiation within the mainstream curriculum, ensuring staff implemented inclusive and challenging teaching practices.
- Designed and implemented units of work reflecting developmental and differentiated curriculum principles.
- Collaborated with teachers across the College to develop and deliver enrichment programs for highly able students.
- Provided practical guidance and resources to colleagues creating curriculum materials for extension and enrichment.
- Analysed student data to identify individual learning needs and determine appropriate levels of support or extension.
- Utilised a range of assessments — including standardised tests, academic competitions, teacher observations, and psychologist recommendations — to identify highly able and talented students.
- Managed a team of five gifted-trained teachers across four campuses, ensuring consistency in program design and delivery.
- Monitored student progress through data tracking, assessment, and ongoing evaluation.
- Maintained accurate records of student performance, participation, and learning plans.
- Delivered engaging, rigorous lessons that balanced explicit instruction with inquiry-based learning.
- Communicated clear learning intentions and success criteria to students to promote accountability and growth.
- Fostered critical and creative thinking across all learning experiences.
- Encouraged student participation beyond the academic curriculum, promoting balanced enrichment and wellbeing.
- Developed and implemented mentoring programs linking students with peers, alumni, parents, teachers, and university staff.
- Provided co-curricular and enrichment opportunities both within and beyond the College community.
- Ensured appropriate placement of students in extension programs through assessment, consultation, and collaboration.
- Worked closely with teachers, parents, and school counsellors to support the learning needs of highly able students.
- Shared relevant information with staff regarding identified students and available extension opportunities.
- Communicated progress to parents and contributed to discussions regarding student achievement and development.
- Wrote and updated Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and maintained comprehensive records of student progress and program structures.
- Participated in College events, meetings, excursions, competitions, and co-curricular activities.
- Contributed to collegial planning and professional dialogue aimed at improving student outcomes.
- Managed program resources effectively, aligning with College goals and strategic priorities.
- Ensured compliance with all College policies, procedures, and legislative requirements.
- Contributed to College communications, including newsletters and publications
Honours Teacher for Mathematics and English
The Scots College Preparatory School
01.2010 - 12.2014
- Taught identified gifted and high-potential students in Years 2–6 in Mathematics and English, ranging from part-time withdrawal programs in early years to full-time withdrawal for all scheduled Mathematics and English classes in Years 5–6.
- Designed and delivered engaging, conceptually rich units that fostered critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
- Implemented differentiated instruction to support diverse learning needs, abilities, and learning styles.
- Collaborated with colleagues to enhance curriculum design and improve student engagement and achievement.
- Mentored new teachers, providing guidance on effective instructional strategies, assessment, and classroom management.
- Utilised formative and summative assessments to evaluate student progress and inform instructional planning.
- Analysed academic data to guide teaching decisions and strengthen program effectiveness.
- Partnered with teachers across disciplines to plan interdisciplinary units that promoted deep understanding and cross-curricular connections.
- Pursued continuous professional learning through workshops, university courses, and conferences to remain current in educational research and best practices.
- Served on school committees focused on curriculum differentiation, teacher development, and evaluation, contributing to an inclusive and innovative school culture.
- Designed curriculum materials to support special education students, ensuring accessibility and inclusive learning opportunities.
- Increased parental engagement through regular communication, conferences, and school events supporting home–school collaboration.
- Developed and implemented assessments to monitor learning growth and adjust teaching strategies accordingly.
- Engaged students through interactive, hands-on activities that deepened understanding and curiosity.
- Scheduled and led three-way conferences with parents to discuss student progress, learning goals, and behaviour.
- Collaborated with staff and teachers to develop and review Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and personalised learning programs to optimise educational outcomes.
Extension and Challenge Teacher
The Scots College ELC
01.2006 - 01.2008
- Independently developed an Extension and Challenge Program designed to meet the intellectual, social, and emotional needs of gifted students while supporting their teachers and parents.
- Delivered weekly individual and group programs that challenged students across various academic areas based on identified strengths and aptitudes.
- Designed and facilitated professional development workshops for teachers on effectively catering for gifted students in the classroom through practical, evidence-based strategies.
- Organised and presented at parent information evenings to build understanding of gifted education and foster school–home collaboration.
- Coordinated and led inter-school enrichment workshops as an active member of the Harbourside Gifted Committee.
- Administered a range of standardised assessments to identify gifted students and monitor academic progress.
Learning Support Teacher
Kincoppal Rose Bay
10.2005 - 12.2005
- Accommodated the diverse needs of 42 students from Kindergarten to Year 6 in Mathematics and/or English through individual, small group and in class support.
Primary School Teacher
SCECGS Redlands
10.1996 - 12.2000
- Taught the Cluster Class, containing a group of identified gifted students.
- Differentiated curriculum to meet diverse learning needs, including compacting, extension, and enrichment for high-potential learners.
- Promoted inclusive, supportive classroom environments that valued diversity and nurtured social–emotional wellbeing.
- Utilised flexible grouping and collaborative learning structures to enhance engagement and peer learning.
- Supported students’ social and emotional development, addressing perfectionism, self-regulation, and motivation.
Education
Higher School Certificate -
S.C.E.C.G.S Redlands
Cremorne01.1991
Master of Education - Gifted Education
The University of N.S.W.
01.2013
C.O.G.E Certificate of Gifted Education - undefined
The University of N.S.W.
01.2007
Bachelor of Education - Primary
The University of Sydney
01.1995
Skills
- Identifying needs of gifted and talented students
- Differentiating curriculum
- Incorporating different models for differentiation
- Understanding IQ test results
- Developing individual programs and IEPs
- Management of diverse student populations
- Assessment of student progress
- Reporting student progress
- Spiritual and pastoral care
- Discipline and behavior modification
- Consultation with staff
- Supporting school ethos and objectives
Affiliations
NESA (NSW Education Standards Authority), Gifted Reference Group
AIS (Australian Independent Schools), Gifted Consultant
MANSW (Mathematics Association of NSW), Conference Presenter
The Hatchery, Conference Presenter
Timeline
Coordinator of the Gifted and Talented Education Years 7-12
The Scots College
01.2022 - Current
Teacher of Year 7 Science and Years 7&8 Mathematics
The Scots College
01.2022 - Current
Coordinator of the Prep Honours Program
The Scots College, Preparatory School
01.2015 - 12.2022
Honours Teacher for Mathematics and English
The Scots College Preparatory School
01.2010 - 12.2014
Extension and Challenge Teacher
The Scots College ELC
01.2006 - 01.2008
Learning Support Teacher
Kincoppal Rose Bay
10.2005 - 12.2005
Primary School Teacher
SCECGS Redlands
10.1996 - 12.2000
Master of Education - Gifted Education
The University of N.S.W.
C.O.G.E Certificate of Gifted Education - undefined
The University of N.S.W.
Bachelor of Education - Primary
The University of Sydney
Higher School Certificate -
S.C.E.C.G.S Redlands
Personal Qualities
- Highly organised
- Able to solve problems independently
- Professional and personal integrity
- Superior inter-personal relationships
- Being flexible and open-minded
- Being proactive and innovative
- Communicating effectively with others
- Being both a leader and a team player
Skills Acquired
- Identifying and responding to the needs of gifted and talented students
- Differentiating the curriculum for gifted students
- Understanding the results of IQ tests
- Developing individual programs and IEP’s for students with specific needs
- Management of large number of students of varying ages, abilities and ethnic backgrounds
- Assessment of student progress and reporting this progress back to parents
- Responsible for the spiritual and pastoral care of students
- Consultation with staff members to continually assess our programs
Personal Information
- Date of Birth: 4 November 1973
- Nationality: Australian/American (dual citizenship)