Mullings - photos by Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

Dedication to volunteerism, unselfish contribution to students at Oberlin High School and many years of service to the Jamaica Teachers' Association have earned Wayne Mullings a Governor General's Achievement Award.

Mullings celebrates his 33rd birthday yesterday.

The St Elizabeth native has been living in St Andrew since 1993 and started his teaching career at Papine High. He currently teaches history and social studies at Oberlin High.

A teacher of 10 years, Mullings told The Gleaner he had growing concerns about indiscipline in the classroom, but added that he tries to build a strong rapport with students.

"They have come to see me as a big brother," the father of two sons said.

Mullings said in spite of the profession's challenges, he gets satisfaction from his students' achievements, particularly when they pursue university education and chart successful careers.

A graduate of Mico Teachers' College and the University of the West Indies, Mona, where he earned a bachelor of education in history, Mullings now has his sights set on pursuing a career in law.

"I always wanted to be a lawyer," he said.

He plans to attend the Norman Manley Law School.