About Us
HI, I'M FRANCES SMITH, EDUCATION THOUGHT LEADER, TEACHING COACH & MENTOR AND ACCOMPLISHED TEACHER
- Frances has over 41 years of teaching experience in the Victorian and Catholic school systems. Considered an authority, she has mentored hundreds of teachers and seen it all.
- She believes that the education system is in crisis and lacks the resources and mentors to support our teachers properly and to walk alongside them on their career journey.
- Shine Your Light Learning was built to help teachers thrive and strike the right work/life balance as they navigate unprecedented levels of professional stress and burnout.
- Frances understands that the first few years in the classroom are an emotional roller-coaster. As a mentor, she listens with empathy, helping her mentees positively redirect their worries and emotions.
- Frances gently guides her mentees and students to explore their creativity and develop their own style, which helps them to try new things and develop their pedagogy whilst being true to themselves.
- And when things go awry, as they always do, Frances knows how to demonstrate resilience, helping her mentees to “repair and recover” quickly.
Testimonials
As a young teacher who felt insecure, overwhelmed and unsure of what I was doing, Frances’ guidance and support not only made me feel better about myself as a teacher, but enabled me to feel confident in my ability to show my love for teaching to my class and the teachers around me. Through the short conversations and the long teaching moments, Frances taught me skills to better my literacy and numeracy teaching and shared her many years of experience in a way that not only I understood but made me feel empowered to teach the students in a successful way.
Through many laughs, tears and heartfelt conversations, at school, home over a cup of tea, in the carpark or over the phone, Frances’ support showed me a compassionate, empowering and supportive woman who will guide you in any area of teaching and always have your back when you need it (often without you even knowing!).
A key moment that changed my perspective on teaching literacy occurred when Frances just happened to walk past my class, I was battling to teach a lesson about constructing sentences to some Foundation students that I wasn’t really sure about but thought I'd give it a go. Through a few key words, a demonstration and a quick discussion with the children, I felt supported enough and confident in what I was doing and Frances went on her way. This is one example of the many simple, short conversations that helped me become a better listener, teacher and more importantly a better person that Frances provides. I cannot recommend Frances more highly for the big or small things and I’m sure her inspiration and love for teaching will help all teachers.
Erin Smith
Testimonials
I see Frances as an 'Earth Mother', guide for teachers - she is so wise, nurturing and grounded.
It was a great privilege, and honour to work with her on her vision for her business - Shine Your Light Learning.
— Natalia Walker, Inner Creative