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Kara Southwood

from customer service to Learning Area Leader - Science
I guide the science teachers and help support student learning
School
O'Loughlin Catholic College
Job Level
Mid

Ask me about

  • Changing from ballet dance to teacher
  • Why I chose Marine Biology and Ecotourism at university
  • What it was like teaching in the UK compared to Australia
  • How leadership roles in pastoral care have shaped the way I teach

About me

  • International Experience
  • Regional Background

I never considered teaching while at High School, as I was pursuing a career as a classically trained ballet dancer. I was always interested in Science and did well in Biology, which led me to complete a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology and Ecotourism. Finding it difficult to secure work in these fields, I decided to complete a Graduate Diploma of Education.

I discovered a love for teaching during my school placements and began my career as a Science Teacher in the UK before returning to Australia. I have held leadership roles focused on pastoral care and wellbeing, but my passion has shifted towards curriculum development and creating meaningful, engaging learning experiences for students.

About my role

  • Disciplined
  • Flexible
  • Passionate
  • Resourceful
  • Understanding

Kara leads the Science Faculty with a focus on helping students enjoy and succeed in science. She ensures programs are engaging, consistent, and linked to real-world applications that develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Kara supports teachers in enhancing learning and applying evidence-based strategies, while mentoring staff to foster a collaborative and supportive faculty culture. Beyond the classroom, she organises competitions, events, and excursions that make learning meaningful and inspiring. She also promotes STEM pathways, helping students see how science connects to their future and sparking a lifelong curiosity for the subject.

Education

  • Bachelor of Science degree (Marine Biology and Ecotourism)
  • Graduate Diploma of Education (Middle Science and Senior Biology)

Subjects

  • Biology
  • Dance
  • Drama
  • English
  • General Mathematics (Maths A)
  • Science

Awards

  • The Educator Australia Rising Stars for emerging leaders in education for outstanding leadership, initiative, passion, expertise, and innovation to teaching and learning (2022)

Hobbies

  • Beach adventures
  • Cooking
  • Dancing
  • Seeing family and friends
  • Travel

Pets

  • 1 Dog

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Studied Science and Education at University
  2. Gained valuable teaching experience in the UK
  3. Developed a passion for supporting student wellbeing
  4. Advanced into senior leadership positions
  5. Shaped Science curriculum across year levels

My typical day

My school

O'Loughlin Catholic College, named after Bishop John O’Loughlin, is built on the lands of the Larrakia people and respectfully acknowledges the history and stories of its land and its people. O’Loughlin Catholic College has a proud history of offering holistic Catholic education to students from the Darwin region from Year 7-12. As a school community O'Loughlin Catholic College upholds the sentiment of their Vision, ‘Make us one in Christ with faith, hope and love." - working in partnership with students and their families to nurture young people who serve their community and see the sacredness in themselves and each other. The college prides itself on a commitment to helping young people be the best version of themselves. Student learning and wellbeing are the core purpose - working to maintain a culture of co-responsibility and work with families and Catholic Education Northern Territory to support the academic, social and spiritual growth of each student.