Toowomba Catholic schools celebrated World Teachers' Day on 29 October to thank their teachers for the important role they play in the community and for the positive impact they have on the lives of students.

They shared some reflections from teachers and students including:

As a child when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I always responded in one of two ways – a nun, or a bus driver. Moving to secondary school; however, I became more attuned to my passion and overwhelming desire to work with children and so chose to pursue a career in education. The beauty of the teaching profession is, that it is a powerful one. Each day you have the power to make a positive impact in the life of a child. And every time you change just one person’s world, in essence you begin a butterfly effect with the potential to improve lives for generations to come. This is true power. Kerri-Ann Manthey, middle leader, Holy Name Primary School, Toowoomba

Being a teacher is a privilege. It provides opportunity to shape the future of our society by having an impact on the next generation. Teachers nurture the development of knowledge, skills and dispositions that enable our students to be positive, creative contributors to the world. It’s a dynamic profession in which every day is different and there are always new challenges, however knowing that you have made a difference to a young person’s life is a total gift. Angela Martlew, deputy principal, Mater Dei Primary School, Toowoomba

Becoming a teacher means I have the opportunity to give back what so many teachers have given me, a chance and the opportunity to learn through my strengths and interests. Growing up through the school system with ADD and Dyslexia was difficult. I will always remember the teachers who took extra care, time and support, allowing me to strive to succeed across my schooling. As an Early Childhood teacher, I can start each child's individual journey of education, taking account of their many cultures and differences to build and instil lifelong skills and aim for early intervention, allowing each child the chance to succeed; and to have a sense of emotional wellbeing and the ability to own their individuality in the current world that is more complex than what I knew growing up. Christel Anderson, teacher, St John’s Kindergarten, Roma

All through my primary years I’ve learnt one thing. To be who I truly want to be, to lead by example and not to become a boss but a leader, not a sheep but a shepherd. To be a light in the darkness and to be the friend everyone can lean on. We can all make mistakes but it’s how we overcome. I would like to thank my Year 6 teachers, Miss Cav and Mr Philp. Lusi Manibe, Year 6, Mater Dei Primary School, Toowoomba

I think Mrs Holzeimer is the definition of inspire. She has had a big influence on me ever since I started school. Just recently, she gave me and many of my classmates the opportunity to be cast in a musical. I have found a big passion for acting and watching her support us inspires me to do my best. Thank you for everything Mrs H. Ella Seeto, Year 6, Mater Dei Primary School, Toowoomba

When I came to Holy Name the teachers became a huge part of my life. They helped me with learning and language. They were patient, kind and caring. Teachers encourage us to be the best we can be, and they help us through tricky times. We are lucky to have amazing teachers at Holy Name. Leen Zahlouz, Year 6, Holy Name Primary School, Toowoomba

Ms McVeigh encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone. She inspires me to be brave. Miss Byrne inspires us all by giving us a chance to be involved in different ways at school in lots of different groups. Grace, Year 4, St Thomas More’s Primary School, Toowoomba