Alysia Degorski is on a mission to make science come alive. As a Haileybury Pangea (online) teacher and Deputy Head of Years 5 and 6 Science at Haileybury, she loves encouraging students to explore how science fits into their lives.
“I encourage my students to bring in artefacts to the classroom that relate to the curriculum. When students are able to share their interests and connect with science in their everyday lives they become enthusiastic about it too,” she explains.
Her students have brought in everything from animal bones to fascinating geodes, AI-programmed robots and microscopic seed shrimp.
Alysia brings her passion for science to students across all campuses. We sat with her to discover what fuels her own curiosity — and how she passes that spark to her students.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I saw my mum’s love of teaching as I was growing up and came to understand how positive a teacher’s influence can be. I have also been lucky to have been taught by many excellent teachers, particularly my Year 7 teacher who was so full of passion.
What has been an impactful moment from your teaching career?
A highlight was having two previous students come back as guest speakers. Both are now studying engineering and have joined a drone flying team. Having taught them how to fly basic drones, it was incredibly rewarding to see them continue building their interests.
What do you enjoy about Haileybury?
Haileybury encourages me to be innovative and try new ideas, particularly learning about and incorporating new technologies. It is a pleasure to work with like-minded colleagues, engaged students and supportive families.
How do you support students?
I enjoy getting to know my students and their interests. The curriculum is a great foundation to explore connections to their lives, and I feel that when they see a purpose to learning then motivation follows. Building on their successes and interests outside of the classroom and connecting that to the concepts that they need to learn is very effective.
What is the most valuable teaching advice you have been given?
When students know what to expect from you and are aware of what is coming up in class, they feel confident in contributing and sharing ideas.
What’s the biggest lesson you have learnt from your students?
To succeed takes hard work, dedication, commitment and importantly passion. A number of students I teach at Haileybury Pangea are emerging athletes, who manage to attend school, complete schoolwork to a high level and compete at elite levels. Their ability to work efficiently and effectively at school whilst also training is impressive.
What do you like to do outside Haileybury?
I enjoy playing with my two young children, gardening and being creative.