Henry Bensted – Aspiring Music Teacher
Since graduating Year 12 from Padua College with your QCE in 2020, what have you been doing?
I’m studying a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) and Bachelor of Arts (Humanities) double degree at the Australian Catholic University with the aim of becoming a high school music teacher. I’m also working part-time in food service. I enjoy the freedom that studying at uni provides — I can choose all my classes and for the most part, what days I go to campus.
When did you discover your passion for music?
I have always loved music, right from my first day of Prep. I’m a musician at heart and I played several instruments throughout school — piano from when I was young, cello from Year 4, tuba from Year 5, guitar from Year 9. I’m thankful that my school’s music staff were so inclusive and engaging. My favourite subject at school was without a doubt, music.
How did you decide you wanted to become a music teacher?
When thinking about a career, initially I wanted to be an engineer. However, after failing Mathematical Methods in Year 10 I had to re-evaluate my priorities: I either had to give up music as a co-curricular activity in favour of my study or find a new career path. For a long time, I’d had the idea in the back of my head about being a classroom music teacher. So, I decided to change my class to General Mathematics and continue with music. It was the best decision I’ve ever made.
Why did you want to study a Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot – Visual Line of Sight) during school?
I’ve had a long-standing interest in drones. Having the knowledge and ability to fly these rather dangerous unmanned aerial vehicles for commercial purposes is a huge privilege. The most enjoyable thing about the course is flying the amazing aircraft they provide for us to train with. Thankfully, the course was run out of school hours on campus, so I could study during the school day and switch to pilot mode after school. Juggling school subjects and a VET course meant I also had to use my study times and spare periods effectively to ensure that all tasks were completed on time. Finishing the Certificate III qualifies me to fly this type of aircraft responsibly, safely and legally as a career if I want to.
What advice would you give to Year 10 students planning their QCE and life after school?
Start with a job or career idea and research its requirements. Consider your commitment level (including your current commitments) and compare it to the commitment and effort required for that idea. Then decide your subjects and go for it. Also, do subjects you enjoy or find easier to break up the stresses of your other subjects.
Can you tell us a fun fact about you?
I can water ski using a single ski pretty well!