When Teba Al-Juboori arrived in Australia from Iraq at just six years old, she couldn’t speak a single word of English.

Having just completed the HSC, her story is a powerful reminder of how tailored support in public schools can transform lives.

Starting Year 1 at Mount Ousley Public School, Teba was overwhelmed by a new language and culture. But thanks to the school’s intensive English support program, she spent her first two months focusing solely on learning English.

For Teba, this early support became the lifeline that allowed her to connect with others and fully embrace her education.

“Starting school with no English was scary, but now it feels like my main language,” Teba said.

“I don’t think I would be where I am now without the English skills I gained at Mount Ousley Public School.

“If I hadn’t become fluent, I wouldn’t be able to express myself, succeed in job interviews, or earn the scholarship that’s helping me now.

“Learning English was the key that opened every door. It gave me the tools to find my voice and believe in my future, and I am grateful for the opportunities public education has given me.”

Today, Teba has finished Year 12 at Keira High School and admits to feeling nervous leading up to HSC results day.

“I think I did okay, although the maths exam caught me off guard, but I’m really hoping all the effort pays off,” she said.

“I felt confident and prepared going into the exams and the support from my teachers was amazing. They truly care, and that made a huge difference.”

Teba’s dream is to improve healthcare access for rural communities, and with early entry into a pre-med program at the University of Wollongong and a $5,000 Principal’s Recommendation Scholarship secured, her future is bright.

“I was at a camp where I met so many students from rural schools and was surprised to learn that sometimes they have to travel hours to access medical care,” she said.

“One friend who lives in Wagga drives three hours to Canberra for her orthodontist appointments.

“I want to help close those gaps so that rural families can get the care they deserve.

“I’ll definitely miss Keira High, but I’m so excited for what’s next.”

And while excitedly waiting to start the new chapter of her education at university next year, Teba is working as a pharmacy assistant and hopes to visit family in Iraq soon.