WHAT started as a teaching placement has turned into a life-changing journey for young teachers Abbey Barcham and Josh Crispin who are now shaping the future of Menindee at the local school.
Ms Barcham began her placement at Menindee Central School in 2022 as a final-year teaching student.
Inspired by her experience, she returned home with stories for her fiancé, also a teacher.
Two years later, the pair traded city life for the remote town, landing full time roles at the school.
Now married and expecting their first child in July, they’ve planted deep roots in Menindee and plan to stick around.
“I love our small community, and I feel a moral imperative to do well for these kids,” Mr Crispin, now the assistant principal, said.
“If a student cannot read, that matters to me even if that student isn’t in my class.
“These kids are our neighbours, their parents work at the shop, and their families have lived here for generations.”
Ms Barcham said she focuses on building confidence and curiosity in her students.
“What I love about Menindee is the opportunity to prove to these kids that they are strong and smart,” she said.
“I see this every day. Reading is the passport for all learning and if we can give our students a strong head start, we’re setting them up for success and creating a love for learning.”
School principal Fiona Kelly said the couple have quickly established friendships and trust within the local community.
“Josh and Abbey have taken time to build relationships with our families and are well respected in our community,” she said.
Under Ms Kelly’s leadership student attendance and academic results have improved, with new approaches to teaching make an impact on the growth of the remote school.
Mr Crispin has been central to the shift, introducing targeted teaching strategies and leading the way in ensuring student wellbeing and behaviour.
He’s also nurturing a passion for science and technology, with one of his students awarded the 2024 Junior Deadly Scientist Award and many of his students attending the New South Wales Space Discovery Program.
“As an educational leader, my leadership style reflects my moral purpose,” he said.
Ms Barcham said she continues to be excited to see her students every morning.
“Working at Menindee is like being a rock star,” she said.
“Every day my students run to me with a smile and can’t wait to tell me about their previous afternoon, day or even their breakfast that morning.
“It takes a village to raise a child and I am so grateful that Menindee will be that village for my own child due in July.
“It’s a special bond that you only get in a small rural town.”
