From Builder to Educator

April 5, 2024

The Fairholme Step Forward to Teach Scholarship recipient, Sophie Knauth, swapped her hammer for chalk as she realises a life-long dream of becoming a teacher.

In a world where career paths can take unexpected turns, Sophie Knauth’s journey from full-time builder to aspiring teacher stands as a testament to the power of passion and opportunity.


Sophie, a recipient of the inaugural Fairholme Step Forward to Teach Scholarship, is embarking on a new chapter in her professional life that blends her love for construction with her desire to educate future generations.


The Fairholme Step Forward to Teach Scholarship, a twelve-month internship, is a beacon of hope for students like Sophie, who are pursuing degrees in Education. This scholarship, tailored for individuals studying Education at University in 2024, offers a unique opportunity to dive into the world of teaching through hands-on experience and mentorship.


Sophie’s journey to this scholarship was anything but conventional. Despite harbouring a childhood dream of becoming a teacher, she was presented with an enticing opportunity to pursue a carpentry apprenticeship in Year 12.


Intrigued by the prospect of working with her hands and mastering a trade, she veered off the traditional academic path and embraced the world of construction. Reflecting on her decision, Sophie shares, ‘I’ve always had a passion for teaching, but when the opportunity to learn carpentry came along, I couldn’t resist. It was a chance to explore something different and challenge myself in a new way.’


For years, Sophie thrived as a builder, honing her skills and relishing in the satisfaction of creating tangible, lasting structures. However, as she completed her apprenticeship and gained more experience in the field, she found herself drawn back to her original calling – teaching.


‘After years of working in construction, I realised that my true passion lies in guiding and shaping young minds,’ Sophie explains. ‘I

wanted to make a difference in the lives of students, just as my teachers had done for me.’


Determined to pursue her newfound ambition, Sophie seized the opportunity to apply for the Fairholme Step Forward to Teach

Scholarship. Her unique blend of practical experience in construction coupled with her unwavering dedication to education made her a standout candidate.


In addition to her scholarship, Sophie has taken on a part-time role within the school’s maintenance team, further immersing herself

in the educational environment while continuing to utilise her construction skills.


As Sophie prepares to embark on her teaching internship, she remains grateful for the diverse experiences that have shaped her path. ‘My journey has been anything but linear, but each twist and turn has led me closer to where I’m meant to be,’ she reflects.


Applications for the 2025 Step Forward to Teach Scholarship close 12 April 2024.


For more information and to apply, visit our Recruitment page.

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Mia's Record-Breaking Championships

February 4, 2026
Congratulations to Year 9 student, Mia Geise, on her outstanding performance at the 2025 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Swimming Championships. Representing Fairholme Aquatics Swim Club, Mia set new personal bests over the holidays in four of her five events and walked away with an impressive haul of medals and records.  Her championship results included: > 4 silver medals in the 12-14 Years Multi-Class 100m Breaststroke, 50m Backstroke, 50m Butterfly and 50m Breaststroke > Australian Records in the Open and 13 Years and Under Multi-Class 100m Breaststroke (SB16 Category) > Queensland Multi-Class Records in the Open 100m Breaststroke, Open 50m Backstroke, and 13 Years events across 50m Freestyle, 100m Breaststroke, 50m Backstroke and 50m Butterfly One of the standout moments of the championships was Mia’s qualification for three open finals, where she competed against some of the country’s most experienced swimmers, including two Paralympians and athletes who have represented Australia on the international stage. In elite company, Mia more than held her own, finishing 4th in the 50m Breaststroke, 5th in the 100m Breaststroke, and 6th in the 50m Backstroke. What makes these achievements even more extraordinary is the context behind them. Mia only returned to competitive swimming in December 2024, following an almost three-year break after undergoing her second liver transplant. Her results at this championship are not only a testament to her talent, but to her resilience, determination and unwavering commitment to the sport she loves. Adding to the celebrations, Mia’s coach Michael (Mick) Winton was recognised for his outstanding work at the Swim Coaches and Teachers Australia Awards, held during the championships. Mick was awarded the 2025 Multi-Class Emerging Championship Coach Award, a well-deserved honour that acknowledges his dedication and leadership in supporting Mia’s development over the past year.

Taking Learning Global

February 4, 2026
Fairholme Year 10 students Georgie Cussons, Amelia Taylor, Anna Le Lievre and Claire Longmire are making the most of their exciting exchange at Oakham School in the United Kingdom, where they will spend six weeks fully immersed in British school life. From classroom learning and social events to sporting fixtures, the girls have wasted no time settling in and making the most of every opportunity. Also in the UK, Gemma Sullivan has begun an 11-week exchange at Bryanston School, where she is already keeping busy through her involvement in netball and the school’s swim, bike, run team. Cindy Deng is likewise enjoying her time abroad, experiencing the traditions and daily life of Rugby School during her own 11-week exchange. Back at Fairholme, we are delighted to be welcoming international students into our community. Joining us for Term 1 are Sienna Hoffman from Bryanston School and Charlotte Campbell from Rugby School, along with Mei Kawasaki and Rio Usami from Keisen High School in Japan. Each brings a unique perspective to campus life, enriching our classrooms and strengthening the global connections that sit at the heart of the Fairholme exchange program.

Meet our Head of Sport

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