Hi everyone,

My name is Heidi Brough. I have recently joined Joondalup Education Support Centre’s staff as a STEM teacher, and I would like to share a bit about myself. I was born with a physical disability known as an upper limb deficiency. This resulted in me being born without any fingers on my left hand. Ever since I was born, I have always struggled to complete everyday tasks, such as tying shoelaces, opening tin cans and tying my hair up. However, I have never let my limitations stop me even though these tasks took me years to master and some I still struggle with today. This drive and determination is helping me to inspire and become a role model for others, something that I value very much.  

Last year, I was very fortunate to be involved in a STEM project named ‘Aussie Hands’ at Ashdale Secondary College. This STEM project involved Year 9 students measuring, casting designing and constructing a functional prosthetic hand using a 3D printer. I am learning how to use this prosthetic, known as the ‘robot hand’ by the students. I have shared my personal struggles, in the hope to inspire students with disabilities to keep going despite challenges and to not give up on their dreams. Teaching STEM is supporting me to help students build resilience as STEM is a brilliant school subject for encouraging students to have a go and explore new and different ways to achieve.

Be proud of how you are born!

I look forward to seeing you all around school and in the local community.