Mr Luke is a primary school teacher, teaching tiny humans in Adelaide, South Australia. He’s now an author and of a new picture book, Guess What We Are Doing Today? Good Reading caught up with Mr Luke to find out what he loves about teaching, his favourite books and his love of plants.
What did your parents do for jobs?
My dad is a Chiropractor and growing us my mum worked alongside him as a Chiropractic Assistant, managing the front of the clinic. When they weren’t at the clinic, both of them were busy raising my two older sisters, younger brother, and me. They juggled taking us to our various sports commitments and extracurricular activities. With four kids playing basketball, two playing netball, and being an active family overall, my parents were always on the go. Growing up with a Chiropractor for a dad also meant I frequently heard “Luke, posture!” or “You shouldn’t be sitting like that” whenever I was slumped on the couch or hunched over a table. Even now, whenever I visit home, my dad still gives me adjustments, which is crucial since I spend my days crouching and sitting on tiny chairs while working with young children.
Did you visit your local library as a child and what did that mean to you?
Absolutely, visiting the library was a part of my childhood and always a delightful experience. Just like it was visiting the school library each week too. Later, early in my teaching career, I even had the chance to run a workshop at a local library, teaching technology and coding to educators. It was an incredibly fun and rewarding experience!
When did you first really, really know you wanted to be a teacher? Was there a moment?
Teaching always felt like my destiny. There were several signs along the way, such as coaching my younger brother’s basketball team, going to my aunt’s ‘bub club’ when she had my cousin and I was in grade 9, enrolling in a school-based playgroup class in Grade 11, and helping at my cousin’s school overseas when travelling. Despite starting a business degree right after Grade 12, I realised after a year that teaching was my true calling. Once I made that switch, it’s been pure magic ever since!
What was your first day of teaching like?
I’ve had many “first days” in teaching different roles, from placements to performing arts, physical education, ICT, and various grades. Each one shared a common theme: a mix of excitement and nerves. Even seasoned teachers feel a bit nervous on the first day! But with deep breaths, kind words, and a big smile, those first days always turn out better than expected.
Can you tell us of an instance that has made you feel very proud of your work?
It’s hard to pick just one moment because teaching is filled with countless proud moments. One standout was when my class and I had just learned a few letters and sounds, and we realized we could read by blending those sounds together. Seeing the sheer excitement and amazement on my students’ faces as they understood they were reading was a truly proud moment for me.
What’s your favourite part of doing playground duty?
Playground duty is a wonderful time to interact with students in a more relaxed setting, and I love being able to catch up with students in all different year levels, past and present students, and those I missed out on teaching. I love seeing them play, explore, and build social skills. It’s also a great opportunity to have casual conversations and connect with them outside the classroom. Also, if the weather is right and I have my running shoes on, it’s a safe bet you can find me on the swings or playing chasey with the kids too! Everyone love’s recess and lunch time!
What’s a book that your class has really enjoyed together?
One memorable book was “Gangsta Granny” by David Walliams when I was teaching Grade Three. After finishing the book, I surprised my class by dressing up as a granny and pretending to be a relief teacher. The students were thoroughly entertained, and it added an extra layer of fun to our reading experience.
What are three of your most favourite books?
- Where the Wild Things Are – A timeless classic that I’ve loved since childhood.
- Jon Klassen’s ‘Hat’ Series – Hilarious and engaging stories that never fail to entertain.
- Who’s Afraid of the Light? by Anna McGregor – A new favourite of mine with captivating illustrations!
Is there a word you always have trouble spelling?
I have one word that I never, ever spell incorrectly! The word ‘because’ is one I never spell incorrectly, thanks to my Grade 2 teacher’s mnemonic: Bunnies Eat Carrots And Uncle Sam’s Ears. I still say it to myself every time I write it!
What started your obsession with plants? How many do you have? What are your favourites?
My love for plants began when I moved into my own home. It started with just two welcome plants and quickly grew into a collection. I now have about 100 plants between my classroom and home. Watching them grow brings me immense joy, much like watching my students grow. There’s always room for more though I think!
Have you ever been able to combine your love of plants with teaching?
Yes, we often discuss plants in class, emphasizing the importance of taking care of them and treating them with respect, just like we should treat each other. My students love our class plants, and we can all learn the importance of nurturing and respect through them.
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