Getting to know you: Meet Elizabeth Quave

Blackfriars is delighted to welcome a number of new staff members in 2023. We look forward to getting to know them – and here’s a head start.

What will you be teaching in 2023? In 2023, I will be teaching a Year 9 key class of Humanities, English and Religion, Year 10 Economics and Year 10 Business and Innovation. I will also be serving as the HaSS Coordinator.

Where are you joining us from? I taught grades 9-12 on the Mississippi Gulf Coast (where I am from) in the United States for eight years before moving to Adelaide in 2019. I recently taught Years 7-9 at Unley High School.

What do you hope to bring to Blackfriars? I hope to bring to Blackfriars the benefit of my teaching experiences in working with a variety of students and to add to the multicultural and diverse perspectives that Blackfriars has to offer.

What’s the best thing about teaching? Engaging with students in the learning process. Supporting students as they learn and helping them develop growth mindsets is a rewarding experience.

What’s your favourite song? My favourite songs are the songs I personally like that my kids (age 12, 9 and 7) think are cool, or at least acceptable. Mississippi is the “birthplace of America’s music”, and I am trying to ensure they are familiar with their home state’s musical contributions. The kids and I don’t often agree on music, but when we do, it is great fun!

Your favourite movie? One of my favourite movies is The Goonies, because it reminds me of the adventurous fun of adolescent friendships.

What would we typically find in your lunchbox? My lunchbox usually has hummus and carrots or crackers and cheese. On a good day, it will have leftovers from something yummy my husband cooked up.