Curiosity, self-worth and confidence sit at the heart of Claire Moore’s Year 6 classroom. Known for her warmth, reflective nature and passion for lifelong learning, Claire’s approach to teaching involves helping students discover who they are, what matters to them and how they can step into high school with a strong sense of self whilst also ensuring the academics are covered.
Looking back on her own school years, Claire describes herself as “a very outgoing student who loved to be with my friends.” She admits she “no doubt talked too much” and enjoyed entertaining those around her with a good story, something her current students would “definitely recognise” in her today. Yet amidst the memories of school life, one teacher stood out. “Mr Perry was my Primary School Librarian. He also ran our sport days,” Claire recalls. “He saw that I had some skill in athletics (seriously!) and bought me running shoes. It was the only time that I ever felt that a teacher believed in me and cared about me.” His encouragement left a lasting impression and helped shape the educator she would later become.
For Claire, Year 6 is a uniquely important stage in a child’s development. “What I love most about working with Year 6 students is supporting them as they begin that journey of trying to figure out who they are and establishing an identity,” she explains. Beyond preparing students academically, she is deeply passionate about helping them develop confidence, self-worth and the ability to form respectful, healthy relationships as they transition into high school.
That passion for growth extends into Claire’s own life as well. Described as having a “thirst for knowledge”, she embraces every opportunity to continue learning. “I most definitely could be a full-time student and do believe we should be lifetime learners,” she says. Through podcasts, books, professional learning and “beautiful conversations with like-minded people”, Claire continually seeks inspiration and new perspectives. In the classroom, she encourages students to bring their own passions and discoveries into shared learning experiences, nurturing curiosity in ways that feel authentic and meaningful to them.
Creating a safe and supportive environment is central to Claire’s teaching philosophy. She believes students experience the greatest growth “when they are in a safe, supportive environment where they feel seen, valued and confident to take risks as they challenge themselves.” It is this combination of care, encouragement and genuine belief in her students that allows them to flourish both academically and personally during such a formative year level.
Perhaps most powerfully, Claire’s message to her younger self is one that should resonate deeply with students today: “Be kinder and more positive in my self-talk, and to embrace a growth mindset.” It is a philosophy that is clearly woven throughout her classroom each day, reminding students that growth takes courage, learning never truly stops, and they are already enough.