Staff in Spotlight - Sam Dickman

In the lead up to World Teacher's Day (Friday 31 October), we will take a look at some College staff who go above and beyond at Lauries!

Today, we look at Mr Sam Dickman and his work as a Chemistry and Physics Teacher.

Can you tell us about your Lauries Journey? 

My journey to Lauries started in the dark-soil country of the Western Downs, in the small town of Chinchilla. While this region is known for its natural resources, fertile cropping land and the must-visit Melon Festival, I followed in my mother’s footsteps and moved away from the farm to pursue teaching at the University of Queensland.

Can you tell us about your career to date?

Having graduated in 2020 with a dual degree in Science and Secondary Education, I commenced at the College in 2021 after an interview with Mr John Butterworth, who was eager to recruit another staff member to support the Rugby League program as well as strengthen the Science Faculty with a Chemistry teacher.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Teaching at Lauries is a privilege in itself due to the sense of welcome the College extends to all who engage with it. From opportunities for professional development to celebrating academic success and cheering on our Colours Cup, Lauries really does invite all to the table and it was no different for me. Transitioning into full-time work in the ‘big smoke’ was made easy by the efforts of the close-knit staff body and the amiability of its leadership team. And having said all this without mentioning the good things that come with the practice of teaching! Do not tell my students, but Chemistry and Physics are not my life’s passion (though I do thoroughly enjoy them). Instead, I derive more joy from the many retreats and service-learning opportunities which the school provides to help our students learn about and stand alongside those who are marginalised in our society.

What would be your best advice to give to students?

Good advice for students also happens to be good advice for anyone – we are all still students in some way, after all. So, as many have said before, be open to new experiences – a change is sometimes as good as a rest. And do your best to remain solution-focused, remembering that we are all, in fact, a work-in-progress.

Can you tell us a little bit about your role?

Besides my position in the Chemistry and Physics teaching teams, I have been fortunate enough to also be involved in the Lauries Rugby League program. This started with managing the Year 8 team in 2021, many of whom I have followed through to the current Opens Squad (First and Second XIII) and the Confraternity Carnival which Lauries proudly won in the second division this year for the first time. Along with Rugby League, I am also fortunate to be a facilitator of the Year 12 Retreat program, giving our Seniors the chance to reflect on their journey and acknowledge the significant figures who have guided them.