Sharing a passion for movement
Hannah Uglow is exactly the kind of human being any of us would want to have teaching their children physical education! In both her personal and professional life she embodies a love of sport and passion for staying active. That’s why we’re delighted that Hannah joined our Carramar Primary campus in 2017, as our Primary Physical Education Specialist.
“My first ever group of Pre-primary students are currently in Year 7! Time flies when you’re having fun!” said Hannah.
Hannah completed her Bachelor of Sport Science, Exercise and Health at the University of Western Australia in 2015, and a Diploma of Education in 2016, majoring in Health and Physical Education and minoring in Special Education.
Even while studying, Hannah’s passion for education was evident. “Prior to teaching I worked as a swimming instructor, support worker and movement specialist at UWA’s Unigym and Thriving exercise programs for kids.”
“In my current role, I help children develop their physical literacy and social skills, with the aim of cultivating a lifelong appreciation for physical activity and well-being. I like to keep my learning environment fresh and exciting, so I’m always introducing fun new activities that cater for a wide range of abilities and interests. I plan all our Primary sports carnivals and try my best to ensure every child has an opportunity to have a go! I also work closely with a group of Primary PE specialists from seven other schools to organise and run our NIPSSA Interschool Carnivals”.
“Every day I get to inspire and empower my students to lead active, healthy lives. I love working outdoors and sharing my passion and enthusiasm for physical activity with the students I’m lucky enough to teach. Knowing that I’m helping my students grow and understand the importance of regular physical activity to create lifelong healthy habits makes my job very rewarding!” said Hannah.
In addition to her busy role at St Stephen’s School, Hannah has been in training for her fourth Rottnest Channel Swim!
“The Rottnest Channel Swim was something I had always aspired to do as I love swimming in the ocean and pool, and a few years ago I decided to participate in the event as a team of four. It’s now one of my favourite days of the year!”
“I swim all year round at my local club – North Coast Masters. In the months leading up to the swim I up my training to four or five times a week, with lots of 5am alarms! After having knee surgery in October last year, swimming has been one of the best forms of rehabilitation”.
As you can imagine, Hannah was one of the many swimmers disappointed when this year’s Swim was cancelled due to rough weather.
“Unfortunately the conditions were not in our favour this year and the swim was called off part way through the race due to the extreme weather. It was disappointing but very understandable as safety is always number one. I will most definitely be back again next year though!”
Like many keen Rotto Swim participants, Hannah is WA girl, born and bred.
“I grew up in Perth and have two younger brothers who both love their sport just as much as me. From a young age our wonderful parents nurtured our enthusiasm for sport and provided us with many opportunities to have a go. To this day my Dad is still my number one supporter at footy games, and my Mum is always snapping photos on the Rotto Swim finish line”.
2024 is a big year for Hannah! Right now she shares life with a two-year-old Australian Shepherd who has as much energy as she does, and Hannah is also looking forward to getting married at the end of the year.
Hannah would recommend being a Primary PE specialist to anyone who is thinking about their future career prospects.
“Knowing that you’re contributing to a child’s well-being and future health makes being this an incredibly rewarding career. It’s such a blessing to be able to form connections and watch students grow and succeed in Physical Education. Like all jobs, being a Primary PE specialist has its challenges, like the weather, but being able to share my passion for physical activity with the St Stephen’s School community is something I am forever grateful for!”