27/08/2026
For Mabel Park State High School teacher Bry, courage has looked like becoming himself and bringing that confidence into the classroom each day 💜
Bry didn’t always plan on becoming a teacher. After being home-schooled from Year 3 to Year 10, he didn’t have much classroom experience growing up. But while completing a Master of Teaching, he discovered during his first professional experience placement that teaching was what he wanted to do for the rest of his life.
Bry says his lived experience has shaped the kind of teacher he is today. In the first two and a half years of his teaching career, he says he was not himself and that affected how he felt at work and in the classroom.
‘Since transitioning, I am happier, steadier. I bring this into my classroom—it is (or at least, I try to make it) a calm, steady environment.’ he said.
‘I know that when I am comfortable in my skin, I am a better person and a better teacher. This is true for everyone and I want to create a classroom environment where students feel comfortable in who they are.’
Bry says the support of his school has played an important role in helping him feel safe, supported and able to be himself at work.
‘…from my first day here I've known that I was welcomed and appreciated’ he said.
That support has helped Bry build the confidence and stability to respond to students with openness, education and care. He says that when incidents of homophobia or transphobia do occur, they are taken seriously, helping maintain a classroom and school environment where respect and belonging matter.
‘For many students, I am the first trans person they have ever met. I am always happy to answer questions asked in good faith.’
Ahead of Wear it Purple Day tomorrow, Bry’s story is a reminder that courage can take many forms: showing up as yourself, helping students learn with understanding and creating calm, inclusive spaces where young people feel safe and supported 🏫💜
📸 Pictured here is Bry dressed up as the King of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland for Book Week.
