Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Robecca Sorrensen

Summary

I am a dedicated educator with 23 years of experience in teaching, leadership, and curriculum implementation across Early Childhood, Primary, Secondary, and Senior Secondary education. I specialise in Curriculum Leadership , Inclusive Practices , and Literacy and Numeracy , with expertise in Inclusive Practices and effective behaviour management . Having worked in diverse locations like Mount Isa, Townsville, and Charters Towers, I bring a deep understanding of the unique needs of different educational contexts.

As a previous leader, I firmly believe that education should be student-centered , with a focus on putting students first . This belief drives my approach to inclusive practices , ensuring every student receives the support they need to reach their full potential. I am skilled at creating environments where all learners feel valued , fostering a sense of belonging and engagement.

In leadership roles, I excelled in mentoring teachers and fostering a collaborative environment . Known for being approachable and supportive, I provided guidance to staff and empowered them to grow professionally. I took pride in leading curriculum initiatives that drove student engagement , academic success , and social wellbeing , all while promoting teamwork and professional growth.

In my role as a Year 3 Teacher at Charters Towers School of Distance Education (2024/25), I successfully use a distance education platform to meet the needs of diverse learners, including those facing medical and geographical challenges. I create personalised lesson plans and regularly receive positive feedback from both students and home tutors.

With strong data analysis skills, I focus on improving student outcomes , particularly in Literacy and Numeracy , and remain committed to fostering a culture of collaboration , excellence , and student-centered learning.

Overview

22
22
years of professional experience

Work History

Lead Teacher: Data Literacy Reference Group

CTDSE
02.2025 - Current
  • Contributed to writing and collaborating on the 2025 School Data Plan.
  • Focussed on the use, implementation, and analysis of data within the school.
  • Helped identify strategies for data-driven decision-making to improve teaching and learning.
  • Worked with colleagues to identify key data points for assessing student progress and school performance.
  • Ensured alignment between the data plan and the school's educational goals and priorities (AIP).
  • Promoted a culture of data literacy among staff to enhance their ability to interpret and use data effectively.

Year 3 Teacher

Charters Towers School of Distance Education
01.2024 - Current
  • Utilise a distance education platform to cater for diverse learning needs.
  • Support medical students and those from geographically isolated areas.
  • Design tailored lesson plans to accommodate varying learning styles and capabilities.
  • Facilitate online interactions to promote collaboration among students.
  • Provide ongoing support to help students achieve their educational goals.
  • Regularly assess student progress to adapt instruction and interventions accordingly.
  • Differentiate instruction to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring each student has an equal opportunity for success.
  • Serve on school committees focussed on curriculum development and outreach initiatives to contribute positively to the overall school climate.
  • Coordinated the Outreach Programme for the 2024 Cape River and Hughenden students.

Head of Department - Inclusion

Columba Catholic College
01.2018 - 01.2022


Provided expert guidance to school leadership, classroom teachers, and staff in the development, planning, and implementation of effective reasonable adjustments for students with disabilities.

  • Led and delivered focussed, targeted teaching for students who required specific interventions.
  • Trained and supported staff on the NCCD process , including identifying levels of adjustment, collecting evidence, and applying consistent, compliant practices in documentation and reporting.
  • Coordinated and offered support for case management of students needing substantial or extensive adjustments.
  • Worked closely with teachers, relevant stakeholders and specialists to provide the best educational opportunities for students; including students with extensive complex needs such as Down Syndrome.
  • Assisted classroom teachers and staff in accessing relevant school or external specialist services, as well as professional development and additional support when necessary.
  • Engaged in school-wide decision-making and contributed to professional development efforts, aligning with the school's goals, vision, and strategic planning (AIP).
  • Developed strategies to foster an inclusive learning environment for students with diverse learning needs, ensuring that the curriculum was aligned to meet individual student needs.
  • Collaborated with staff to create and evaluate Individualised Curriculum Plans (ICPs) that addressed the specific learning goals of each student.
  • Provided Professional Development for teachers on implementing inclusive teaching strategies within their classrooms, promoting differentiation to support all learners.
  • Established clear performance expectations for staff members which led to increased accountability and student success.
  • Collaborated with other teachers to plan interdisciplinary units that connected subjects and promoted deeper understanding among students.
  • Identified struggling students early on and provided additional support through tutoring sessions and modified lesson/unit plans.
  • Coordinated with language specialists to support English Language Learners and students with speech difficulties.
  • Improved student engagement by incorporating interactive learning technologies into lesson plans.
  • Enhanced literacy skills with targeted reading programmes.
  • Increased parental involvement in students' education by organising regular communication and events.
  • Developed and implemented classroom routines to address varying student needs.
  • Met with students, parents and administrators to address and resolve students' behavioural and academic issues.
  • Implemented reading, numeracy and writing workshops to increase student literacy and support school reading programmes.
  • Collaborated with staff to design and implement personalised learning plans tailored to individual student strengths, needs, and aspirations.

Head of Department - Curriculum

Columba Catholic College
12.2017 - 12.2023
  • Provided strategic guidance and hands-on support to teachers in curriculum planning and implementation, ensuring alignment with the Australian Curriculum and educational best practices.
  • Conducted thorough curriculum audits and led targeted professional development sessions to strengthen staff understanding of curriculum design, assessment, and delivery.
  • Analysed student achievement data to identify learning trends, informing evidence-based curriculum adjustments that led to measurable improvements in student outcomes.
  • Maintained detailed records of student progress, attendance, and behaviour to support transparent communication with families and promote shared responsibility in student learning.
  • Actively pursued professional development through workshops, conferences, and ongoing learning to remain informed on contemporary educational research and methodologies.
  • Mentored beginning teachers by modelling effective practices, offering constructive feedback, and guiding them in successfully transitioning into their professional roles.
  • Designed and delivered professional development workshops for colleagues, focussing on effective classroom management, inclusive teaching strategies, and differentiated instruction.
  • Taught staff about the Australian Curriculum Version 9.0, ensuring teachers were equipped to understand and implement its updates, including the integration of cross-curriculum priorities and general capabilities.
  • Promoted digital literacy by embedding technology meaningfully into curriculum content, enhancing student engagement and future-ready skills.
  • Fostered critical thinking and problem-solving through innovative, project-based learning experiences that empowered students to apply knowledge in real-world contexts.
  • Applied data-informed instructional planning to differentiate learning experiences, ensuring targeted support and challenge for all learners.
  • Maintained consistent communication with students, parents, and staff to provide feedback, align instructional goals, and support holistic student development.


Programme Development

Columba Catholic College
01.2018 - 12.2023
  • Developed comprehensive Work Programmes for all Key Learning Areas in collaboration with the Principal and Secondary Heads of Department (HoDs), ensuring alignment with school priorities and curriculum standards.
  • Played a key role in the creation and enhancement of new educational programmes, significantly enriching the student learning experience.
  • Collaborated closely with faculty to design curriculum materials tailored to both school objectives and the diverse needs of students, ensuring relevance and engagement.
  • Wrote and designed a School Kitchen Garden Programme , integrating HASS (Humanities and Social Sciences), Science, and Technologies for K-6 students, fostering hands-on learning and sustainability awareness.

TCE Writing Action Research Project

Townsville Catholic Education
01.2022 - 12.2023
  • Managed a project aimed at enhancing students' writing skills across various year levels, focussing on data analysis to inform instructional improvements.
  • Facilitated workshops for teachers to improve writing instruction, leading to measurable improvements in student writing proficiency.
  • Reported on project progress and outcomes, demonstrating how data-driven strategies had positively influenced student writing performance and maintained rigorous data sheets on student achievement.
  • Designed a video presentation and workshop that was presented at the Mercure Inn for Townsville Catholic Education, receiving excellent feedback on the success of the students' progress in writing.

Overview

Columba Catholic College
01.2013 - 01.2023
  • Collaborated on Curriculum Improvement: Contributed to initiatives outlined in the (AIP) to foster curriculum excellence.
  • Directed Curriculum Development: Oversaw the implementation of curriculum initiatives across all Key Learning Areas (KLAs) to align with the Australian Curriculum (Version 9.0).
  • Developed and Implemented Action Plans: Created an Australian Curriculum P-10 V9.0 Action Plan for effective integration across all year levels.
  • Established Three Levels of Curriculum Planning:

-Whole School Planning: Defined educational goals and priorities aligned with the Australian Curriculum to support learning across all grades.

-Year Level Planning: Worked with school teams and teachers to create plans addressing specific learning outcomes tailored to student needs at each year level.

-Unit Overviews: Collaborated with teachers to design unit overviews with Learning Intentions, Success Criteria, Assessment strategies, and effective teaching methodologies.

  • Enhanced Instructional Practices: Provided individualised support and resources to improve teaching effectiveness and student engagement.
  • Fostered Collaboration: Facilitated regular curriculum meetings and professional learning sessions to encourage sharing of strategies and best practices among educators.
  • Evaluated Curriculum Effectiveness: Used student performance data to identify areas for improvement, informing ongoing curriculum adjustments and Professional Development opportunities.
  • Analysed Student Achievement Data: Identified trends and gaps, leading targeted interventions that achieved measurable increases in Literacy and Numeracy outcomes.
  • Organised Professional Development: Led workshops focussing on curriculum design, assessment strategies, and innovative teaching practices to enhance student learning.
  • Mentored Early Career Teachers: Provided guidance on teaching methodologies, lesson planning, and data analysis to promote professional growth and emotional well-being.
  • Liaised with Teacher Aides: Offered Professional Development on the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD), effective computer usage, behaviour management, and career development strategies.
  • Implemented Inclusive Curriculum Practices: Ensured equitable access to educational resources and opportunities for all students.
  • Engaged with Stakeholders: Collaborated with parents and community members to align practices with local and national standards and promote shared commitments to student success.
  • Managed Timetabling and Rosters: Oversaw allocations of teachers and teacher aides to support effective learning environments.
  • Coordinated School Budget Resources: Worked with staff to order resources for the yearly budget, ensuring adherence to budget allowances and managing educational programme funds effectively.
  • Managed Educational Subscriptions: Oversaw school subscriptions to valuable educational websites, ensuring access to high-quality resources for staff and students.
  • Supported Positive Behaviour Management: Managed student behaviour in accordance with the School Behaviour Plan, promoting a positive learning environment and provided teachers guidance on effective behaviour management.
  • Celebrated Successful Pedagogy: Recognised and provided opportunities for teachers to showcase successful classroom practices and mentor peers.
  • Designed and Delivered Engaging Lessons: Created lesson plans tailored to diverse student needs, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
  • Implemented Assessments: Monitored student progress, informing instructional decisions, resulting in improved learning outcomes.
  • Engaged in Professional Development: Collaborated with colleagues to share effective teaching strategies and actively participate in ongoing professional learning.

Data Analyst

Columba Catholic College
01.2018 - 12.2023
  • Analysed student performance data to identify academic trends and inform curriculum adaptations.
  • Used data to set clear goals for student achievement and developed monitoring strategies to track progress.
  • Created student profiles that provided detailed insights into academic trends, using longitudinal studies to track student progress and identify areas for improvement over time.
  • Was mentored by Professor Judy Smeed (QUT) on how to analyse data effectively and use it to drive improvements in student outcomes.
  • Coordinated ACER testing twice per year, using the data to measure improvements in student performance and identify areas for targeted intervention.
  • Taught teachers how to analyse data for their teaching, with a particular focus on group work and collaboration, enabling them to use insights for more effective instructional planning.

E Learning Guide

Columba Catholic College
01.2016 - 12.2023
  • Provided support for the integration of e-learning initiatives, enhancing digital literacy for both staff and students.
  • Developed training materials to help teachers effectively incorporate Technology into their lessons, ensuring alignment with educational goals.
  • Worked with Technology specialists to maintain up-to-date e-learning tools that supported effective teaching and learning.

Information Technology Teacher

Columba Catholic College
01.2022 - 01.2023
  • Developed and implemented a comprehensive IT curriculum that engaged students and equipped them with essential technology skills.
  • Advocated for responsible technology use and digital citizenship among students, preparing them for future challenges.
  • Facilitated collaborative group work to foster teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication among students.
  • Organised extracurricular clubs and events related to information technology, fostering a sense of community among students with shared IT interests.

Science Teacher

Columba Catholic College
01.2022 - 01.2023
  • Designed and taught Science units and lessons that encouraged inquiry and critical thinking, in alignment with the Australian Curriculum (Version 9.0).
  • Developed hands-on experiments and activities that fostered student engagement and deeper understanding of scientific concepts.

Lead Extension Numeracy Coordinator

Columba Catholic College
01.2019 - 01.2022
  • Created advanced numeracy programmes for students excelling in numeracy, ensuring a comprehensive approach to mathematics instruction.
  • Worked with classroom teachers to align advanced programmes with overall Numeracy teaching goals.

Lead STEM Coordinator

Columba Catholic College
01.2019 - 01.2021
  • Developed interdisciplinary projects that integrated Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.
  • Fostered teamwork and innovation among students through collaborative activities and projects.
  • Recruited guest speakers from various industries to provide students with insight into potential career paths.
  • Enhanced STEM curriculum by developing innovative projects and hands-on activities.
  • Served as a liaison between school administration, parents, and community members to promote awareness of the importance of STEM education.
  • Secured funding for STEM programmes through successful applications and community partnerships.
  • Organised STEM-related events such as science fairs, competitions, and workshops for students and staff including the use of 3D printers and software.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge on current research trends in STEM education through continuous professional development activities.

Curriculum Coordinator HoC

Marion Catholic School
01.2014 - 12.2016
  • Developed the school reporting programme and template.
  • Conducted regular assessments to identify gaps in curriculum, making data-informed adjustments.
  • Conducted curriculum audits to ensure compliance with accreditation standards and educational regulations.
  • Provided coaching and mentoring to teachers, nurturing their growth as professionals and contributing to a positive school culture.
  • Teamed with subject matter experts in evaluation and revision of training tools in order to continually improve learning platforms.
  • Developed comprehensive unit and lesson plans for various subjects, ensuring content alignment with state standards.
  • Updated resource libraries with current literature and multimedia content, enriching learning experiences.
  • Streamlined curriculum review processes, reducing time needed for revisions and updates.
  • Improved adaptability of curriculum to meet varied learning needs of students.

Classroom Teacher (Early, Middle and Upper Primary)

Marian Catholic School
01.2007 - 01.2012
  • Designed and implemented engaging unit and lesson plans tailored to various age groups, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.
  • Utilised differentiated instruction techniques to accommodate diverse learning needs, enhancing students' overall academic performance.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop shared resources and strategies, promoting a cohesive educational approach across year levels.

Learning Support Teacher

Blackheath and Thornburgh College
01.2006 - 01.2007
  • Provided targeted support to students requiring additional academic assistance, developing individualised learning plans to promote success.
  • Implemented enrichment programmes for gifted students, fostering advanced skills and critical thinking.

Senior English Teacher

Blackheath and Thornburgh College
01.2006 - 01.2007
  • Developed and delivered advanced English Curriculum content for senior students, focussing on critical thinking and analytical skills.
  • Created Assessments that accurately measured student understanding and facilitated feedback for continuous improvement.

Middle Years HASS Teacher

Blackheath and Thornburgh
01.2006 - 01.2007
  • Taught Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) to middle school students, using interactive methods to engage learners in historical and geographical concepts.
  • Implemented project-based assessments to encourage collaborative learning and real-world connections.

Year 9 Pastoral Leader
  • Led pastoral care initiatives, supporting students' social and emotional well-being.
  • Developed programmes that promoted a positive school culture and addressed the needs of Year 9 students.

Classroom Teacher (Primary)

Saint Joseph's Mount Isa
01.2003 - 01.2006
  • Delivered comprehensive instruction across various subjects for Primary school students, focussing on foundational skills and student engagement.
  • Fostered a supportive and inclusive classroom environment that encouraged student participation and academic growth.
  • Collaborated with parents and the community to create a strong support network for student learning.

Education

Bachelor of Education (5-Year Degree) - Early Childhood, Primary, Secondary English, Writing, History

James Cook University
01.2002

Advanced Graduate Certificate in Theology - Education and Misology

University of Newcastle
01.2010

Skills

    HoD Inclusive Practices and Student Support

  • Delivered targeted professional development on inclusive education, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and differentiated instruction, empowering teachers to effectively support students with diverse learning needs
  • Provided leadership for inclusive practices school-wide, guiding the implementation of personalised adjustments for students with disabilities through collaborative planning, coaching, and curriculum support
  • Played a key role in the NCCD process, supporting teachers with identification, documentation, and implementation of adjustments in alignment with national guidelines
  • Developed and reviewed Individual Curriculum Plans (ICPs) and Individual Support Plans (ISPs) in collaboration with classroom teachers, specialists, and families to ensure meaningful access to the curriculum for all students
  • Offered ongoing mentoring and consultation for teachers and support staff, helping them build confidence and capability in applying inclusive practices in everyday teaching
  • Led initiatives in positive behaviour support and reinforcement strategies, improving engagement and student outcomes through proactive and preventative approaches
  • Facilitated regular case management meetings for students requiring substantial or extensive adjustments, ensuring cohesive support and alignment with specialist services
  • Advocated for a student-first, strength-based approach, creating learning environments where every student feels valued, supported, and capable of success
  • HoD Curriculum

  • Held leadership roles as Head of Department, Curriculum, demonstrating strategic vision and operational excellence
  • Led NCCD (Nationally Consistent Collection of Data) initiatives as a team member, trainer, and facilitator—supporting staff with compliance, data integrity, and inclusive planning
  • Took on temporary Deputy roles, contributing to whole-school leadership, strategic direction, and staff development
  • Served on the Curriculum Leadership Team, advising teachers on planning, pedagogy, and assessment aligned with the Australian Curriculum (Version 90)
  • Authored comprehensive Curriculum and Assessment Programmes across all Key Learning Areas (KLAs)
  • Developed detailed unit framework templates with clearly defined Learning Intentions, Achievement Standards, Assessment Types, and Teaching Strategies, including space for teacher reflection
  • Conducted curriculum and assessment audits to identify improvement areas and drive student achievement
  • Professional Learning and Mentoring

  • Led Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) including the school’s Writing PLC and Early Years PLC, promoting collaboration and effective teaching practices
  • Designed and facilitated Professional Development (PD) for staff, focussed on inclusive practices, high-impact instruction, and curriculum delivery
  • Mentored Early Career Teachers and colleagues across both Primary and Secondary levels through coaching, modelling, and reflective practice
  • Conducted inservicing on curriculum planning, early years literacy, data analysis, and classroom behaviour support
  • Expert in literacy frameworks such as 7 Steps to Writing Success, Writer’s Toolbox, and the Townsville Writing Action Research Project
  • Data Analysis and Research

  • Conducted a Year 3 and 5 writing study, presented at the Townsville Catholic Diocese Conference with extremely positive feedback
  • Participated in a two-year writing improvement study, achieving an 85% success rate (up from 55%) across P–12
  • Developed comprehensive student data profiles and led a longitudinal Literacy and Numeracy study, showing a 99% improvement from Prep to Year 6
  • Collaborated for several years with acclaimed Professor Judy Smeed (QUT) on Early Years Testing and NAPLAN data analysis, using insights to inform curriculum improvement
  • Specialist Teaching and Innovation

  • Delivered curriculum-aligned training for teachers in English, Mathematics, Technologies and Science, with a focus on alignment to Australian Curriculum Version 90
  • Co-developed subject content and assessment across KLAs
  • Coordinated STEM/STEAM programmes for high-achieving students, promoting innovation and critical thinking
  • Fostered curriculum coherence across Primary and Secondary levels through collaborative planning and implementation
  • Community and School Engagement

  • Partnered with the Parents and Citizens (P&C) Association to strengthen community involvement and parental engagement in learning
  • Long-term member of the Columba Catholic College Board and the school’s Literacy Team, contributing to school governance and excellence in teaching
  • Held operational leadership roles including NAPLAN Facilitator and PMP Programme Trainer, supporting student development and whole-school priorities
  • Professional Strengths

  • Strong advocate for student-centred learning and inclusive education
  • Proven leader in mentoring and coaching, known for approachability, collaboration, and clarity
  • Skilled in differentiated instruction, curriculum design, classroom behaviour management, and family engagement
  • Recognised as a positive role model who builds trust, uplifts teams, and drives continuous school improvement

Timeline

Lead Teacher: Data Literacy Reference Group

CTDSE
02.2025 - Current

Year 3 Teacher

Charters Towers School of Distance Education
01.2024 - Current

TCE Writing Action Research Project

Townsville Catholic Education
01.2022 - 12.2023

Information Technology Teacher

Columba Catholic College
01.2022 - 01.2023

Science Teacher

Columba Catholic College
01.2022 - 01.2023

Lead Extension Numeracy Coordinator

Columba Catholic College
01.2019 - 01.2022

Lead STEM Coordinator

Columba Catholic College
01.2019 - 01.2021

Programme Development

Columba Catholic College
01.2018 - 12.2023

Head of Department - Inclusion

Columba Catholic College
01.2018 - 01.2022

Data Analyst

Columba Catholic College
01.2018 - 12.2023

Head of Department - Curriculum

Columba Catholic College
12.2017 - 12.2023

E Learning Guide

Columba Catholic College
01.2016 - 12.2023

Curriculum Coordinator HoC

Marion Catholic School
01.2014 - 12.2016

Overview

Columba Catholic College
01.2013 - 01.2023

Classroom Teacher (Early, Middle and Upper Primary)

Marian Catholic School
01.2007 - 01.2012

Learning Support Teacher

Blackheath and Thornburgh College
01.2006 - 01.2007

Middle Years HASS Teacher

Blackheath and Thornburgh
01.2006 - 01.2007

Senior English Teacher

Blackheath and Thornburgh College
01.2006 - 01.2007

Classroom Teacher (Primary)

Saint Joseph's Mount Isa
01.2003 - 01.2006

Year 9 Pastoral Leader

Advanced Graduate Certificate in Theology - Education and Misology

University of Newcastle

Bachelor of Education (5-Year Degree) - Early Childhood, Primary, Secondary English, Writing, History

James Cook University
Robecca Sorrensen