What’s it like to work for the Y? Get an insight through these team members’ career journey and time at the Y.

Meet Sarah: A Journey of Dedication and Impact at Y Community School
When Sarah joined Y Whittlesea just six months ago as Campus Principal, she brought with her a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for education. With a Bachelor of Education in hand, Sarah’s career in the education sector began with a clear purpose: to make a difference in the lives of others, particularly those who needed support the most.
Finding Her Path
Sarah’s first role as a primary teacher in a low-socioeconomic, multicultural suburb taught her the importance of individualised support. Teaching a combined class of Prep, Year 1, and Year 2 students, she worked tirelessly to ensure every child was engaged, supported, and challenged. “I planned for each student individually,” Sarah recalls. “When I was told to group them by ability, it really bothered me—I knew I wouldn’t be meeting their unique needs.”
This drive to create meaningful, tailored support ultimately led her to pursue roles in specialist education settings, where she felt she could make the greatest impact.
A Warm Welcome to the Y
Starting at Y Whittlesea as Campus Principal, Sarah was met with warmth and encouragement, even as she worked from temporary offices while the school building was being completed. “Everyone was so friendly and welcoming,” Sarah shares. “It was clear that everyone genuinely cared about supporting others.”
Sarah now leads a dedicated team of eight—including teachers, wellbeing specialists, youth workers, and administrators—set to expand to twelve next year. She oversees the day-to-day operations of the campus, fostering a supportive environment for both staff and students.
Personal and Professional Growth
Reflecting on her journey, Sarah acknowledges how much she’s grown. Early in her career, she struggled with the pressure of needing to have all the answers. “Now, I’ve learned to be at peace with the unknown,” she explains. “I’ve also learned to be kinder to myself—sometimes I need to remind myself that I’m not Superwoman!”
Sarah continues to grow professionally, learning something new every day in her current role.
The Rewards of the Role
For Sarah, the most rewarding part of her job is seeing the spark in her students’ and colleagues’ eyes when they find their place at Y Community School. “It’s amazing to witness those moments when they realise they belong and are capable of achieving great things.”
Advice to Her Younger Self
Looking back, Sarah would tell her younger self not to sweat the small stuff and to take time to reflect on accomplishments. “It’s easy to keep chasing the next goal without pausing to appreciate what you’ve already achieved,” she advises.
Why the Y?
What sets Y Whittlesea apart for Sarah is the culture of genuine care. “Everyone here is deeply invested in making the world a better place,” she says.
Sarahs story is one of passion, resilience, and a commitment to creating a brighter future for those she serves. Her journey at Y Whittlesea is a testament to the power of education and the impact of dedicated leadership.