Chloé Nichols
Global Politics, Sociology, Year 10 Humanities and Social Science
When did you start working Alia?
2016
Tell us about something interesting you did in class this year?
One interesting project we completed for HaSS this year was a mock election. Students created a party complete with a party platform, posters and a speech or a video advertisement. The rest of the school then voted on their preferred party using the preferential voting system. The class then counted the votes in accordance with the House of Representatives system.
What do you enjoy about teaching your subjects?
The subjects I teach are primarily focused on contemporary human society. This involves studying the institutions and mechanisms that govern and inform the way people behave. What I love most about teaching these subjects is watching young people question the world around them, including their own beliefs and values. In doing so, it gives them the opportunity to become informed and active citizens, who can contribute to a better and more just world. Playing a role in this process is pretty special and rewarding!
What do you like about working at Alia?
There are many things I love about teaching at Alia. I love the smaller class sizes, which afford me the opportunity to better tailor the content of my classes to the interests and abilities of individual students. I love the the casual atmosphere, the open and honest communication, and lack of arbitrary rules! When you are not compelled to punish students, I feel it encourages greater trust and better relationships among the staff and students. I love watching students flourish in an environment that allows them to be themselves, encourages them to communicate their feelings and ideas, and allows them autonomy and the opportunity to take on leadership roles. I love working with my colleagues and our prinicipal Bob, who are some of the most passionate, hardworking and caring people I have ever met.
What do you get up to with your time outside school?
Outside of school, when I’m not planning classes I love hiking, swimming, reading philosophy, watching sci-fi and anime and going to the theatre. I enjoy travelling, good food, camping and singing and playing my guitar.