World Teachers’ Day 2025: Teacher Spotlight – Cody Rintala

For Cody Rintala, the journey to becoming a secondary teacher didn’t begin in a classroom, it began in a courtroom.

Armed with a Bachelor of Laws from James Cook University, Cody was admitted as a solicitor in 2020 and began his legal career at a respected local law firm in Townsville. But despite the prestige and promise of the legal profession, something didn’t quite fit.

‘While I was studying Law, I was working at a primary school in Townsville,’ he said.

‘I thoroughly enjoyed my role there and it did not feel like I was working. This was a massive reason why I decided to change my career path.’

Today, Cody teaches secondary students at Ryan Catholic College in Kirwan and is driven by a desire to be a positive role model. He loves teaching subjects that challenge students academically, while also helping them grow personally – a dual impact he finds deeply rewarding.

‘The most fulfilling part of being a teacher is knowing you’re making a difference not just academically, but in building students’ confidence and personal skills,’ he said.

‘It’s also about showing that teaching is a profession worth being proud of, especially at a time when it’s facing so many challenges.’

Cody’s students inspire him daily.

‘The most amazing thing about teaching is that every day is a new day,’ he said.

‘This highlights the importance of using every day as a blank canvas and although your learning sequence or positive influence did not go through one day it does not mean it will not work the next.’

His advice to anyone considering a career in teaching whether fresh out of school or changing careers is simple but heartfelt.

‘Give it a go. It’s one of the best jobs in the world.’

Cody Rintala
Ryan Catholic College – Kirwan QLD

Visit the World Teachers’ Day (WTD) Queensland website to read more inspiring teacher stories and to download resources for your school community to celebrate WTD on Friday 31 October 2025.