Teacher is off to Africa

LUCY Spalding will spend this Christmas making her way to Tanzania to start a new career.On Friday she will fly out to start as the School of St Jude’s new physical education teacher.“There are so many people who have helped me and offered me opportunities,’’ she said.‘‘I want to help others and give them the same opportunities.“My sister gave me a book for Christmas years ago and I have always followed (school founder Gemma Sisia’s) story and I’m always looking for jobs overseas online.Having satisfied her mother’s requirements, she’s ready for the new adventure but nervous about what the experience might bring.“My mum said I had to finish my degree and have at least a year’s teaching experience so I had something to offer – I’ve done my year now.”Moving to Tanzania will be Ms Spalding’s first trip to Africa, though she has travelled extensively and lived overseas in the past.“I’ve travelled quite a bit – I went to Finland on exchange and America on a basketball scholarship,” she said.“I’m nervous. I’m really excited but I’m really nervous.”She will live on campus at the school, which is split across two campuses in the far north of the country.“The facilities for teachers are quite good, like for everyone,” she said.“There’s 1500 students and about 350 staff. I’m looking forward to it.”Ms Spalding will start work at the school on January 4.