Future teacher inspired by study, work and culture
CQUniversity student Lainey Wilson is passionate about shaping young minds in regional communities.
Growing up in Mackay, Lainey said the teachers who supported and believed in her throughout school gave her the confidence to enrol in a Bachelor of Education.
“I was inspired by the teachers who encouraged me to aim high,” Lainey said.
“That experience showed me how powerful education can be in shaping someone’s confidence and future. I chose to study a Bachelor of Education because I wanted to make that same positive impact.”
Alongside her studies, Lainey is a Teacher Aide at Pioneer State High School, which she said shaped her understanding of teaching and deepened her appreciation for the diversity of today’s classrooms.
“Working as a Teacher Aide was an eye-opening experience,” she explained.
“It gave me a real-world understanding of how classrooms function, how diverse student needs are, and how important relationships are in creating a supportive learning environment.
“It made me even more passionate about becoming a teacher because I could see first-hand the difference a caring and prepared educator can make.”
Her dedication was recognised when she received the CQUniCares/BMA Indigenous Undergraduate Scholarship.
“I was honestly overwhelmed with joy and pride when I found out,” Lainey said.
“It felt like all the hard work I had been putting into my studies was recognised, and it gave me an extra push to keep striving for my goals.”
As a proud Byellee woman of Gladstone, Lainey said the scholarship not only eased financial pressure but also strengthened her sense of purpose.
“This scholarship represented support and encouragement not just for me, but for my family and community too,” she said.
“It made it easier to balance work and study, and it was reassuring to know there were people who believed in my potential.”
Outside of university, Lainey was also a qualified dance teacher and credited dance for building many of the skills used in teaching.
“Dance had always been a big part of my life,” she said.
“It gave me balance, creativity, and a way to connect with others. The skills it built, discipline, teamwork, confidence and self-expression, were invaluable,” she said.
“I want to incorporate creative movement and performing arts into my classroom one day.”
While juggling work, study, and personal life was challenging, Lainey said her support networks and strong sense of purpose kept her focused.
“At times it was overwhelming, but I learned to manage my time better and remind myself of my long-term goals,” she said.
“My heritage made me very aware of the importance of representation in education and the power of role models.
“I wanted to show students that they belonged in these spaces, that their voices mattered and that they could succeed.”
Lainey hopes to teach in regional and rural schools before moving into a leadership role where she can mentor other teachers and help improve educational outcomes for students.
“If I can play even a small part in helping young people believe in themselves, that’s what success looks like to me.”
