Staff Spotlight - Empowering Hearts - Miriam Zweygartt's Journey as a Chaplain

In the tapestry of education, some threads are woven with a passion that goes beyond the ordinary. Miriam Zweygartt, a Chaplain at Dynamic Learning College (DLC), is one such individual whose commitment to creating a safe haven for children with special needs has touched the lives of many. Join us as we delve into Miriam's inspiring story, exploring her motivations, challenges, and the profound rewards of her role.

Miriam's journey took root during her university days when she felt a desire to work with young people. Around the same time, she first learned about Dynamic Learning College. Drawn by the idea of making a difference, Miriam found her calling as a chaplain. Her heart resonated with the idea of fostering a sense of belonging and value among students with diverse needs. At Dynamic Learning, Miriam plays an integral role in cultivating an environment where every student can flourish.

While Miriam didn't have extensive prior experience working with children with special needs, she brought with her a degree in social work and a background in pastoral care within her church, where she engaged with young people. Her journey at Dynamic Learning College has been marked by a willingness to learn and grow. The school's commitment to training and development has provided her with essential insights into understanding the unique needs of her students.

For Miriam, one of the significant challenges lies in the diversity of her students. Each child, while sharing a diagnosis on paper, possesses a distinct personality, learning style, and background. This diversity brings forth an array of needs and difficulties, but it also showcases the individuality and beauty of each student. Dynamic Learning's commitment to smaller classroom sizes and additional staff support has allowed the school to create tailored solutions for these challenges.

In Miriam's world, the most rewarding moments are in the smiles and stories of her students. When students express their love for the school, describing a sense of acceptance and value. Seeing students thrive in an environment that celebrates their uniqueness is a testament to the impactful work being done at Dynamic Learning College. And perhaps the most cherished moments are seeing students embrace faith, discovering the love of Jesus, and recognising their own worth.

Miriam's role as a chaplain embodies versatility. Her day-to-day involves seamlessly fitting into various aspects of the school community, offering support where needed the most. Her favourite moments involve one-on-one check-ins with students, providing that extra bit of care on difficult days. What's even more special is her engagement in faith discussions, providing a safe and nurturing space for students to explore their beliefs and ask questions.

For those considering a career in teaching special needs children, Miriam's wisdom shines through. She advises looking beyond the initial apprehension, as being part of such an environment is an entirely different experience. The resilience and character exhibited by the students, along with the unique rewards of the role, make it an incredibly fulfilling endeavour.

Miriam Zweygartt's journey epitomises the transformative power of compassion, faith, and dedication. Her role as a Chaplain at Dynamic Learning College reflects the heart of a St Philip's Christian College education – not just teaching, but nurturing, empowering, and guiding young hearts on their journey of growth and self-discovery.