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Minister’s and Secretary’s 2021 Awards for EXCELLENCE 3 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence for Awards and Secretary’s 2021 Minister’s

WELCOME Foundation Public Education WELCOME David Hetherington Executive Director Foundation Public Education Once again, it is a great privilege to present the winners of the the winners of present privilege to Once again, it is a great Excellence. These Awards for Awards and Secretary’s Minister’s occurs every the exceptional work that NSW day across celebrate employees and – by schools, students, teachers, public education is as high as ever and perhaps even In 2021, the standard parents. against the as this work has been undertaken impressive more of a pandemic. backdrop manage the Minister’s to is proud Foundation The Public Education as part showcase the of our mission to Awards and Secretary’s the Hon. Sarah Mitchell to grateful are We best of public schooling. and Ms and Early Childhood Learning, Education for Minister MLC, Harrisson, Secretary Georgina of the NSW Department of Education, us with this responsibility. entrusting for we would be meeting on 6 Of course, we had been hoping that that means but COVID-19 ceremony, Awards a formal for September our winners locally in recognising we are a second year running for their school environments. diminish the quality of the winners we are does nothing to That about outstanding contributions and here read You’ll celebrating. a Stage 5 Moving from NSW, across from initiatives innovative Cafeteria Life for a Learning Park High to Hoxton at program Forward East Public School. Moree at our 2022 scholarship that a quick reminder share I want to Finally, primary for round got and secondary schools is now open. We’ve including new scholarships for award, to of scholarships hundreds students starting high school and many new Acacia scholarships for a look! and take our website Head to schools in particular. regional event. next year’s Awards see you back in person for hope to We 2 AWARD MINISTER’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN RECIPIENTS TEACHING Recognising teachers who deliver the highest quality education to their students and MINISTER’S AWARD contribute to their professional FOR EXCELLENCE communities. IN STUDENT Kelly Andrews ACHIEVEMENT Birrong Girls High School Michelle Armstrong Kathryn Kane Recognising outstanding Year High School 12 students who have excelled Rachel Harkin Zoe Peters in their secondary years across Cumberland High School Denison College of Secondary Megan Atkinson Sandra Kerr Education – Bathurst High School academic excellence, sports, Oliver James High Campus cultural, community and Matthew Baillie Kylie Lenhardt leadership. Melinda Ryan Denison College of Secondary High School Riley Jones Salam Adra Coonabarabran High School Education – Bathurst Veronica Manock Kurri Kurri High School High Campus Strathfield Girls High School Chloe Smith Denison College of Secondary Aisa Karalic Husain Alhashemi George Betsis Education – Bathurst High Campus Cumberland High School Claudia Smith Alyssa Koit Livia Bolanca Lisa McInally Jasmine Blanch Orange High School Birrong Girls High School Clairgate Public School Wagga Wagga High School Alexa Stuart Deanne Bulmer Melanie Naylor Erin Bloor Hannah Lovlin Lambton High School Campbellfield Public School Elderslie High School NBSC – Amelie Stuut Nhi Lu Gerard Chomicz Ian Preston Laura Campbell Murrumbidgee Regional Sinduja Sureshkumar Campbellfield Public School North Girls High School High School Dineshe Mohanarajah Penrith High School Alison Clark Annabel Chen Carolyn Ratcliffe Brodie Taylor Wadalba Community School North Lowanna Murray Ulladulla High School Paul Clarke Jack Coleman Michael Richards Cowra High School Thinesshan Thevathasan Fort Street High School Rutherford Technology North Andrew Clifton Chelsea Nagel High School Isabella Ennever Maitland Public School Casino High School Elizabeth Macarthur High School Mark Tran Suzanne Sherrington Prairiewood High School Danielle Demetrios Doonside Technology Lachlan Eshman Maximillian Navarrete Liverpool Boys High School Coonabarabran High School Bega High School Zoe Tudor High School Martin Douglas Inoke Tuhukava Samuel Flood Milla Papallo High School Inverell High School NBSC – Nicholas Whelan High School Stacey Jones Penrith High School Scott Waring Hanako Greuter Denison College of Secondary Shanni Yehuda NBSC – Mackellar Girls Campus Education – Sydney Girls High School Senior Campus

4 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 5 EXCELLENT OUTSTANDING SERVICE INITIATIVE SECRETARY’S SECRETARY’S AWARD FOR AWARD FOR EXCELLENT SERVICE OUTSTANDING Recognising NSW Department Ana Latu SCHOOL INITIATIVE of Education employees Thomas Reddall High School The award is presented to NSW Murray High School (teaching and non-teaching) public schools demonstrating Engagement and Transition who have shown outstanding Emma Mackenzie via a specific program, event Centre effort in improving the quality Padstow North Public School or initiative their commitment of teaching, learning outcomes Murrumbidgee Regional Brian O’Hora to teaching and learning and/or school environments outcomes, leadership, High School in the NSW public education New Zealand STEM Tamlyn Phillips supporting the students and/or sector. Education Alliance Ulladulla High School creating a sustainable learning Jannan Assaad environment. Brenda Pyett Saturday School of Community Auburn North Public School Partners in Learning Languages Endeavour Sports High School Use of Video for Self Reflection NSW School of Languages Fiona Baillie Shannon Stanbridge and Peer Reflection Stage 6 Online Languages Scarborough Public School Campbellfield Public School Courses Simone Billinghurst Luz Velez Stage 5 Moving Forward Program Prairiewood High School Bringelly Public School Intensive Reaching for the Stars English Centre Hunter River High School Sahin Bostanci Learning Opportunities Lindfield Learning Village for Tomorrow Aunty Kim Chan Liverpool Boys High School Marrickville Public School Big Picture Academy Don Dwarte Picnic Point Public School Blake Graham Ulladulla High School Jen Greig Merrylands East Public School Nathan Gunter Wagga Wagga High School Robyn Harmon Ballina Public School James Harris Heaton Public School Matthew Johnson Glenvale School

6 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 7 MINISTER’S AWARD FOR SECRETARY’S PUBLIC SCHOOL SCHOOL PARENT OF EXCELLENCE IN STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT THE YEAR AWARD ACHIEVEMENT This prestigious award Caringbah North The Public School Parent of recognises NSW public Public School the Year Award is a prestigious schools that have successfully Jannali Public School award presented to parents, created a sustainable learning RECIPIENT CITATIONS Miranda North Public School guardians and caregivers environment through a who have made a significant 4C Community of Practice whole-of-school project. contribution to their local NSW Schools receiving this award Caringbah North public school community. must demonstrate significant Public School Dianne Bentley Salam Adra Jasmine Blanch improvement in learning Connect 4 Wellbeing Program Bringelly Public School Strathfield Girls High School Wagga Wagga High School outcomes and opportunities, Glenbrook Public School excellence in student Danielle Harris I have known Salam Adra for over five and a half Jasmine has consistently displayed all values of Quality Teaching Coordinator learning, maximising learning Ulladulla High School years in my capacity as Principal, Strathfield Girls public education. She is an outstanding student who is well respected by students and staff for her opportunities for all students as Moree East Public School Anna McFarlane High School. Salam is an all-rounder who has excelled both within and outside academia. She is a reliable, integrity and responsible approach to all aspects well as community leadership. Learning for Life Cafeteria Rose Bay Secondary College articulate and organised young person, focused of her school life and within the wider community. Albury High School Towradgi Public School Helen Mundy on making a difference to the local and global She is an outstanding ambassador for Wagga Pivotal Wellbeing School Wellbeing Framework Wagga Wagga High School community. She reflects values of leadership and is Wagga High School and public education. Jasmine – A Positive School Experience has shown through her strong sense of fairness Auburn North Public School Ben and Swannida Stewart passionate in her determination to make the world a For All better place. I fully endorse this nomination of Salam and social justice that she has empathy for all. This Collaborative School Culture Harrington Street Public School Winmalee Public School Adra for this prestigious award in full confidence that is most evident in her varied volunteer work both Whole School Achievement she is very deserving of the recognition as a student within the school and wider community. Jasmine – Jesmond Senior Campus of excellence. is an exemplary student who exhibits outstanding – Wallsend Campus personal qualities of honesty, integrity and – Waratah Campus determination. Faculty Leadership Improvement Project Husain Alhashemi Cumberland High School Erin Bloor Husain Alhashemi has served the Cumberland High Elderslie High School School community with absolute distinction as an outstanding student leader and school-captain elect Erin is an outstanding all rounder who has achieved in 2020/2021. Husain has excelled both academically excellent results academically, in multiple sporting and in the domain of sport throughout his schooling endeavours and also in terms of sustained school as demonstrated by his commitment to and leadership over 6 years at Elderslie High School. pursuit of entelechy. His innovative sustainable, Erin represents our school at an elite level in sport scientific and community-minded projects have including , football, athletics and cross country promoted significant outcomes for the students and has proven her worth at a state and regional and broader community over the past six years. As level in many of these sports. As a leader, Erin has an inspiring leader of the Prefect body, Husain has developed her leadership on a sustained basis having fostered effective collaboration and coordinated served the school community as an SRC leader as fundraising initiatives in support of local not-for-profit well as Prefect in 2020 and Vice Captain in 2021. organisations to bring about positive change within our local community.

8 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 9 Laura Campbell Isabella Ennever Hanako Greuter Oliver James North Sydney Girls High School Casino High School NBSC – Mackellar Girls Campus Wagga Wagga High School Laura Campbell embodies excellence in all she does I have no hesitation in recommending Isabella Hanako has distinguished herself in every aspect of Oliver has shown that he is a determined well-rounded and proudly lives the values of public education. Laura Ennever for this award. She is a determined her school life. As School Captain, Hanako has been student who strives for excellence in all areas of has dedicated herself to advocating for those who and passionate student and displays this in her exemplary; she is the consummate role model with school life. His maturity and natural leadership has cannot advocate for themselves and is most proud academic, sporting and leadership roles. Isabella has strong leadership capabilities matched with a most been evident at school as a School Leader and active of her achievements in the leadership of our school consistently achieved outstanding academic results and inclusive member of the school community. caring, positive manner. She consistently displays animal rights group, Roar. Laura excels across all and gained recognition for her commitment to Oliver has made significant contributions to the subjects, public speaking, debating and her school the strongest leadership, integrity and responsibility, science and her desire to see more students involved whole school community where he is a positive leadership role as Vice Captain. Laura’s enthusiasm and is always a proactive and productive individual. in this field. She is an accomplished public speaker role model for all students. He has maintained his and contribution to the Arts programs has been and I have no doubt that she will succeed in whatever Hanako has distinguished herself academically and impressive academic record while immersing himself substantial, culminating in her role as Assistant endeavour she pursues in the future. She is a worthy in her sport at national level. Hanako’s exceptionally Dance Teacher and lead in the 2019 Musical Hairspray. in all areas of school life. He has shown fairness, recipient of this award. high standards and her contributions to the Exceptionally talented, Laura will make a positive cooperation and consideration for others when community make her an outstanding role model. contribution to our future.​ dealing with issues of leadership in all aspects Her talent is further evidenced by her varied sporting, of his life. cultural and community achievements and her Lachlan Eshman prolific fundraising for charity. Annabel Chen Coonabarabran High School North Sydney Girls High School Lachlan is an extraordinary young man. He Riley Jones is talented across a range of achievements; Kurri Kurri High School An extremely talented individual, Annabel has academically, on the sporting field, and in a number succeeded in all she has done with humility. Rachel Harkin Riley is an exemplary student who always presents of cultural pursuits, particularly as a musician, singer Her outstanding academic success has been Cumberland High School himself as trustworthy, hard working and mature. and thespian. Within our community however, it has complemented by her acclaimed achievements Throughout his time at school, he has worked been Lachlan's concern for others and willingness Rachel Harkin is an outstanding School Captain and across a range of extra curricular, leadership and diligently to meet deadlines and always produced to assist that has been greatly appreciated. He has exemplary role-model, who is recognised for her sporting accomplishments. As a prefect, leader of work of a high standard which reflected not only mentored younger members of our Robotics team academic, cultural, creative and sporting excellence, our environmental group and an executive member his interest in his education but also his desire to as well as junior students in need of a positive role inspiring citizenship and exceptional commitment of the Charities and Social Justice Council, Annabel achieve. The time and effort Riley has placed into model. He can always be relied upon by staff to step has been a powerful role model to younger peers. to service. Within the school context, Rachel has representing the school academically, culturally and up, lead and assist. Her success in Taekwondo is noteworthy at a excelled academically and received prestigious in sporting events is impressive. He contributes in state level. A compassionate, genuine team player, awards and scholarships for her academic a positive manner both within the classroom and in Annabel is an individual of the highest integrity. excellence and gifted oracy as reflected through her his leadership roles within the school. Riley is well leadership in the Mock Trial tournaments. Rachel has respected by both staff and students and worthy Samuel Flood contributed significantly to a number of programs, of the award. Inverell High School not-for-profit organisations and community-based Jack Coleman Samuel Flood has shown an outstanding record fundraising initiatives that have positively impacted Fort Street High School of all rounder achievement over his whole schooling Cumberland High School and the broader community. Jack has an outstanding academic record, including career. He has always been 1st rank in all his Rachel is a most worthy recipient of the Minister’s Aisa Karalic ranking First in State for HSC Mathematics Advanced subjects, named Dux for the past 5 years and has Award for Excellence in Student Achievement. Keira High School as an accelerated student in Year 11, and first in Year a passion for high level Mathematics and Science. 11 in Music 2, Geography, Chemistry and Physics. He Samuel has displayed a willingness to involve Aisa Karalic is a highly committed and diligent has been a member of the Fort Street Instrumental himself in all activities at school immersing himself student. In her leadership role as school captain Music Program since 2016 in five ensembles and is in musicals and many sporting activities. Samuel is she demonstrates great integrity and respect for currently in two Arts Unit ensembles. He is also an also a selfless young man and leader, always willing all. She has always had the highest of standards for outstanding sportsman and swimming champion, to mentor and coach junior students to reach their herself and contributed to her school communuity and a passionate advocate of diversity and inclusion. potential. He is a most impressive student who is at every opportunity. Aisa shows great dedication to He always demonstrates the highest personal highly regarded by all the school community. her studies and is maintaining an exceptional level standards of excellence and responsibility, decency of achievement in all of her Higher School Certificate and collaboration, and is a proud advocate for courses. Aisa is a worthy recipient of the Minister's public education. Award for Excellence in Student Achievement.

10 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 11 Zoe Peters Alyssa Koit Dineshe Mohanarajah Maximillian Navarrete Denison College of Secondary Fort Street High School Girraween High School Bega High School Education – Alyssa ranks academically in the very top cohort of Dineshe has demonstrated the highest quality Max has demonstrated a strong commitment to his Zoe is an exceptional student whose unique ability students at this selective school. She is a collaborative attributes as a positive role model for public education at Bega High school. He is self motivated, to focus intently on her own growth and positive and supportive classmate, and a keen mentor and education. His achievements have extended into mature and a hard worker. Max is a well rounded self-development of her peers within the community, coach to others. She is an outstanding sportswoman, the domains of academic excellence, community young man demonstrating skills performing musically places her in the top echelon of young people in and is a NSW representative in basketball. She contributions, co-curricular and leadership within his band, playing a range of sports and high Australia. Zoe is regularly the highest academic is Sports House Captain, and has organised, endeavours. Dineshe's service has been exemplary level academic achievement in Physics, Advanced achiever in her cohort, achieving outstanding results managed and refereed inter-school and intra-school and his contributions to the school are meritorious. across all subjects. Her incomparable school leadership English, Mathematics, PDHPE and Music. Max also competitions across a wide variety of sports. She He has initiated and led numerous programs that as Captain and Bathurst Youth Mayor opens doors for performs at a high level in many sports including has also been a leading member of several academic have supported both students and teachers. Dineshe many students in our public education system. As the Rugby League, snow skiing and soccer, and acts as and social-justice co-curricular programs. In all has actively demonstrated an outstanding ability to International Women’s Day Ambassador and National roles Alyssa demonstrates sportsmanship, fairness, balance his studies at an academically selective high a mentor and role model for younger students in his Lions Youth of the Year 2021 winner she has inspired responsibility, co-operation and excellence. She and school with a variety of other co-curricular activities capacity as school captain. youth girls across our region. A worthy recipient for her family are proud supporters of public education. both within the school and the wider community. Excellence in Student Achievement. Dineshe is a most deserving recipient of this award.

Milla Papallo Hannah Lovlin NBSC – Mackellar Girls Campus Melinda Ryan NBSC – Manly Selective Campus Lowanna Murray Milla Papallo has distinguished herself and Coonabarabran High School Hannah Lovlin is a Year 12 Student at Manly Campus Cowra High School demonstrated a commitment to excellence. Melinda Ryan is an outstanding young woman. She of Secondary College. She has It is with great pride that Lowanna Murray has been As School Captain, Milla displays the strongest has achieved excellence in her studies through her always been a high achiever and has demonstrated awarded a Minister’s Award for Excellence in Student leadership, integrity and responsibility, and is enthusiasm for learning and willingness to work hard her commitment to both school and the community Achievement. Lowanna is a proud Cowra Wiradjuri always a proactive and productive individual with to achieve a goal. She has been an exemplary role in a variety of ways. She absolutely embodies our woman and school captain who achieves high levels a keen sense of the wellbeing of others. She has model in our community through her upholding of school ethos of Academic Excellence, Personal of academic success. She is an exemplary leader who distinguished herself academically, and her highest our school's core values of excellence, resilience and Best and Giving back to the Community as a most has been a member of the Student Leadership Council level achievements at State Netball, and her State respect. She is highly, and rightly regarded by staff as valued and respected member of the SRC and Vice since Year 7. Lowanna is admired for her innovative level achievements in swimming, athletics, and a young woman of considerable talent and integrity, Captain. Her dedication to the wellbeing of those she approaches to leadership, her ability to build a rapport basketball, further evidence Milla’s commitment to and a well deserved recipient of this award. encounters reflects her personal qualities, such as and challenge students to achieve their best and excellence and her broad talent. Milla’s exceptionally integrity, celebrating diversity and a sense of fair play. all this is reflected in her skills to model collective She is highly recommended for this prestigious award. efficacy amongst her peers across the school and high personal standards and her contributions to the the Cowra community. community make her an outstanding role model. Her talent is further evidenced by her varied cultural and Chloe Smith community achievements. Lambton High School Nhi Lu Chloe is a remarkable, talented young woman whose achievements extend from a strong academic Prairiewood High School Chelsea Nagel program of study, to engagement in sport at an elite Elizabeth Macarthur High School Nhi Lu is an exceptional student who demonstrates level and as a school community leader as Senior excellence in all she does! Academically, she We at Elizabeth Macarthur High School have been Prefect, SRC leader and sports coach. She takes pride performs at the highest levels across a variety of blessed with the skills and talents of Chelsea Nagel in representing her school, and NSW, disciplines, whilst executing her demanding duties over the past 6 years at school assemblies, COS whilst showcasing encouragement to students of all as School Prefect. She is held in high esteem by Showcases, musicals and much more with her ages. Chloe approaches her studies enthusiastically peers and staff alike, because of her consistent angelic voice and assembly talks of her experiences to achieve at the highest level and has a passion commitment to the school community, and and lessons learned when faced with adversity. She to be of service to others in the school and local infectious energy that draws others to engage has exceeded all expectations on her high school community, while leading initiatives as a positive role in matters of high social and environmental achievements and is on track to achieve her post model in upholding the values of public education. importance. Coming from a disadvantaged socio- school destination of university. Chelsea has been economic background, Nhi has achieved outcomes an integral member in the CAPA faculty but also to in her learning and leadership that can only be the wider school community displaying ambition and attributed to her determination and drive to succeed. sportsmanship beyond her years and physical ability.

12 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 13 Claudia Smith Sinduja Sureshkumar Mark Tran Shanni Yehuda Orange High School Penrith High School Prairiewood High School Sydney Girls High School Claudia Smith is a clear example of our school Sinduja Sureshkumar is a highly gifted student, Mark Tran is an outstanding Year 12 student, who Shanni is the current School Captain and is motto – she strives to do her best in every part of her excelling across the . This is clearly has achieved excellence across multiple platforms. an outstanding leader and scholar. She is an school life. Claudia proudly demonstrates our values evident in her recent HSC assessments where she Academically he ranks first in Mathematics Extension extraordinarily gifted and dedicated student who of safety, learning and respect in everything she does has improved her performance in all areas. Sinduja is 2 and Chemistry having achieved Band 6 and E4 in the is highly respected by her teachers and peers, – academically, on the sporting field, in the arts, as a currently ranked 1st in PDHPE, 1st in Biology and 1st 2020 HSC Mathematics and Extension 1 Examinations. and serves as an inspiring role model for younger school leader and in every interaction she has with in Studies of Religion and she has received numerous As a school prefect, Mark's leadership with and for students in the school . She is unfailingly respectful her teachers and her peers. She excels academically academic recognition awards, most recently in others is exceptional and operating beyond self. He and unassuming however has the capacity to and strives to continually improve in all areas of her English and Biology. Her dedication to her studies, has been consistently mindful and purposeful in his articulate and promote the views of the student academic life as a learner who approaches every the high goals she sets herself and her work ethic school and community engagement, enriching school body with courtesy and diplomacy. Shanni certainly task with a determination to build her knowledge have earned her excellent results in all subjects. culture, raising awareness of critical social issues, and matches the profile of a young leader deserving the and Orange High School is extremely proud of her Sinduja was successfully elected as Prefect in 2020. encouraging others to play their part. Accordingly, recognition of “student excellence.” achievements. She is most deserving of this award. Mark Tran is most worthy of the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Student Achievement!

Alexa Stuart Brodie Taylor Lambton High School Ulladulla High School Zoe Tudor Brodie is an exceptional young person in all aspects. Singleton High School Alexa is an outstanding, highly motivated student He is the Vice School Captain and truly committed who embodies the values of public education. Zoe is a perfect example of the values and qualities to his school and his studies achieving outstanding She approaches her studies with dedication and that underpins public education. Zoe is the product of results across a range of rigorous subjects. Along an enquiring mind, reflected in her outstanding six years of consistent diligence, sustained effort and with this he is a caring, strategic and inventive school achievements in all HSC subjects, including commitment to herself and her school community. leader, enabling the voice of all students through his This is reflected in exemplar academic, sporting distinguished achievement in accelerated leadership role on the SRC. His invention of QR Codes Mathematics and Visual Arts. Alexa shows and leadership success through to her election as on bins, to improve student engagement in recycling school captain, 2021. Zoe personifies the values of determination to be of service to others in the school for the school has been outstanding, with both staff and local community, and has led initiatives as a respect, cooperation, responsibility, participation, and students embracing this remarkable initiative. care, fairness and most importantly, integrity in all positive role model through her leadership in the Brodie has a passion, commitment and aptitude for SRC and as School Captain. A community role model, that she does. She has represented her school in IStem. A well deserving student of excellence. the community and showcases the importance of Alexa is passionate about the environment and is student voice. Zoe is deserving of the Minister’s recognised for her advocacy and inspiring youth Award for Excellence in Student Achievement. ​ awareness and climate action. Thinesshan Thevathasan North Sydney Boys High School Amelie Stuut Thinesshan is a true all-rounder, a young man with Nicholas Whelan enthusiasm, a love of learning and natural leadership Penrith High School Galston High School skills. He is a most deserving candidate for this Nicholas Whelan is a high-achieving student who Amelie Stuut is an exceptional young woman who important award and represents what is good has maintained an excellent standard across the holds the position of school Vice Captain at Galston about public education. He is a valued member of curriculum. His dedication to learning and work High School. Amelie demonstrates exemplary our school community and exemplifies falcon pride ethic have earned him excellent results in all areas. interpersonal and leadership skills on a daily and the Falcon Code, the set of values held dear in Nicholas is currently ranked 5th in his year group – an basis and is a highly valued member of the school our school, preparing young men to be the future. outstanding achievement for a student completing community. She has an outstanding reputation as a As his mentor for the past year, I am confident in his HSC year in an academically selective high school. Thinesshan being a most worthy recipient for this student representative and is held in high esteem by He is ranked 1st in English, 1st in Modern History, 1st in prestigious award. her prefect peers, younger students and teachers for Studies of Religion and 4th in Mathematics. Nicholas her leadership skills. Amelie Stuut is the embodiment was successfully elected as Prefect in 2020, earning of the values we espouse in public education and is the respect of his teachers and peers. Nicholas is a an outstanding recipient of the Minister’s Award for most worthy recipient of this award. Excellence in Student Achievement.

14 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 15 pedagogical practices through evidence-based MINISTER’S AWARD FOR literacy and numeracy practices. Deanne builds a mentally healthy learning community where George Betsis students feel connected, resilient and independent, EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING Ulladulla High School by embedding the Be You mental health framework school-wide. Deanne has an outstanding work ethic, George Betsis is a passionate, very experienced and acts with compassion and empathy and strives highly skilled mathematics teacher. For his entire for excellence. career he has been authentically committed to ensuring all students access the benefits and rigor of learning maths, with a particular focus on those RECIPIENT CITATIONS who disengage. George has successfully led the COVID Numeracy Strategy and QT Rounds firmly Gerard Chomicz grounded in quality teaching. George is the pivotal Campbellfield Public School contributing factor for the inspirational culture Gerard Chomicz is a passionate, leading learner who of learning within a large mathematics faculty, embeds evidence-based teaching practices. He is Kelly Andrews Megan Atkinson and enlivening mathematics for all. He prioritises driven to achieve the highest standards of success learning, despite the high demands placed upon him Birrong Girls High School Elderslie High School for every student, staff member and parent/carer. as a deputy principal in a large rural high school. His high expectations drive continuous improvement, Kelly Andrews teaches with passion, as if there is an After over 25 years as our most prominent increasing student achievement. His professionalism Agriculture teacher, Megan Atkinson has developed emergency in pursuit of equity and student success. is of the highest calibre and is underpinned by This has led to incredible, above state average a school farm that is second to none, ensuring integrity and respect, as he strives for social equity. results over the past seven years without fail. Her a highly engaging space for students. She is the As a special education teacher, Gerard ensures that whole school contributions to professional learning creator of our Animal Nursery Program in which Livia Bolanca Birrong Girls High School diverse learners flourish. His leadership enables have modelled consistent best practice in explicit she runs around 12 community petting nurseries for culturally responsive learning for our Aboriginal quality teaching, formative assessment and ALARM. small children annually, giving up her Saturdays to Livia Bolanca is an exceptional instructional leader, students. Gerard motivates others to achieve The results have included the Birrong Girls High allow students to showcase their animal handling full of energy and passion for pedagogy and personal excellence. His relentless commitment to School being recognised repeatedly for ‘punching skills. She develops displays for Agricultural Shows education. Her vibrant discussions with her peer public education is inspiring, impressive and should above its weight’ in HSC performance, and in 2020, (Sydney Royal, Camden and Penrith) to give students colleagues focus on student achievement and be celebrated. ensuring that every lesson is rich with impact. Her placing in the top four comprehensive high schools opportunities to interact with the Agricultural work across the state as Teacher Quality Adviser is for excellence in HSC English results. She leads by community. Over more than 20 years, our students have won many parading competitions due to an extension of the long term work she has done example. She leads by excellence. Megan's leadership. within her faculty, alongside executive and senior executive members and across KLAs within Birrong Alison Clark Girls High School. She has modelled collaborative Wadalba Community School Matthew Baillie efficacy at its finest and has played a pivotal role in Denison College of Secondary Alison Clark has demonstrated qualities of a world Michelle Armstrong the celebrated HSC English results at BGHS and has class teacher. This is demonstrated through her Education – Bathurst High transformed lives forever. Albury High School support of highest level academic achievement by Campus her students, coupled with their appreciation for Michelle Armstrong lives and breathes teaching Matthew Baillie is an extremely popular and her commitment to supporting their excellence and Albury High School. She is an exceptional, highly effective teaching and learning expert. His and growth as learners. Ms Clark’s pedagogical expert teacher who excels in getting the best from students’ outstanding results are a testament to his Deanne Bulmer practice is a model of excellence. Her practice is her students. Her HSC results in Mathematics and student focussed, innovative and shared beyond impeccable subject knowledge, his dynamic and well Campbellfield Public School Software Development and Design include multiple informed pedagogy and his deep care for all of the her classroom. This includes sharing of her practice Band 6 over multiple years. She is equally passionate students he engages with as a classroom teacher, Deanne Bulmer is a passionate educator with a across school, local, state and national levels. Her at supporting students with learning difficulties and a year advisor, a mentor and a sporting coach. His strong moral imperative to watch all students quality practice prior to COVID-19 and innovative differentiating learning. Her commitment to our IT humble and affable nature make him an invaluable succeed. As an exemplary teacher, she actively practice during and post “learning from home” is an system and 21st C learning means that Albury High member of the teaching team where his unwavering shapes our school culture leading to innovation and exemplar of next practice for the teaching profession. inclusivity. Deanne drives continuous improvement, School is well placed in the digital world. I cannot commitment to public education and his willingness supporting staff to develop agency and adaptive recommend her highly enough. Michelle is a worthy to embrace change and challenge inspire other expertise. She refines practices through coaching, recipient of this award. teaching professionals. He is exceptionally worthy mentoring and collaborative planning. She improves of this recognition.

16 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 17 Veronica Manock Paul Clarke Danielle Demetrios Kathryn Kane Denison College of Secondary Merrylands High School Liverpool Boys High School James Fallon High School Education – Bathurst High Campus Paul Clarke is a true public education champion Danielle Demetrios has been a valued member of Kathryn Kane is the Teacher Librarian at James Fallon Veronica Manock’s unwavering enthusiasm, passion since 1985. He is an educational leader who selflessly our school community since 2009. She has built High School. She excels at this role, connecting with and positivity for teaching make her a popular and serves young people through applying professional deep relationships with students, staff and external each student to ensure they feel safe and cared extremely successful educator. She is a wholly knowledge and exemplary practice. Paul is expert partners. Danielle demonstrates a work ethic way for. Students enjoy working with her on a variety of committed and dynamic practitioner who acts as a at engaging students, employing his remarkable beyond what is expected and has dedicated herself creative and innovative projects that are inclusive and positive mentor to others in her profession. Veronica interpersonal skills to build rapport and connection to a range of pursuits including being Head Teacher engaging. Her expertise, particularly in literacy and holds extremely high expectations of herself, her with all students. His humility, professionalism and of HSIE & Big Picture, Year Adviser, VET Teacher technology, has provided students with the tailored colleagues and her students and thus achieves patience ensures that he is also a colleague who is and Big Picture Adviser. Her deep professional support they require to meet their evolving learning excellence in both her own classroom and in those cherished by all staff. Paul continues to serve public knowledge, exemplary practice and ongoing needs. Kathryn’s willingness to cater to the diversity around her. She is an invaluable member of the education through his role as a mentor to beginning engagement make her an asset not only to our of all learners and her cheerful approach to building leadership team where her ideas, her informed teachers pursuing a career through their tertiary school but to public education. relationships with students and their families, make understanding of educational research and her ability to evaluate practice have been essential to school education and wider sporting communities as her a highly respected teacher in the school. evaluation and planning. She is simply one of the best! reflected through his life memberships to athletics and swimming. Martin Douglas Corowa High School Sandra Kerr Wagga Wagga High School Lisa McInally Martin Douglas represents the best of the teaching Wagga Wagga High School considers Sandra Kerr Clairgate Public School Andrew Clifton profession. He is an exciting teacher with a real to be an outstanding teacher who demonstrates Lisa McInally is dedicated to promoting a warm Maitland Public School passion for History; he is an inspiring leader who personal qualities of collaboration, inclusivity, and and welcoming environment at Clairgate where all Andrew Clifton’s connection with the students he supports and enables his colleagues to flourish; empathy with all members of the school and wider children, parents and staff feel supported and valued. teaches exemplifies his professional capacities. and he is unstintingly generous with his time, teaching community. Her contribution to the special Her generosity of spirit and warm manner are evident knowledge and resources. The beneficiaries of As Learning and Support Teacher, he combines a education community at WWHS and regionally on a daily basis and she is integral to the smooth Martin's exceptional teaching extend beyond his own broad curriculum knowledge with outstanding data show her commitment to all students achieving running of the school. Lisa is an amazing teacher and classroom and can be found across our student, staff management skills to best support students with their potential educationally and socially. Sandra mentor to staff, she is warm and caring to all children learning difficulties in improving their knowledge and parents communities and, indeed, in schools ensures all students are known and cared for and and a font of wisdom and common sense for parents. and understanding and extending Stage 3 gifted across the state where his knowledge and resources that their contributions are valued. She represents She is a large part of the heart of our school and we and talented students in maths. Further, he leads have been used in the creation and implementation public education with dignity in all her endeavours simply cannot imagine a more deserving recipient professional learning across the school through his of the new HSC History Syllabuses. In short, Martin is and WWHS are proud of her Minister’s Award for of an award for Excellence in Teaching. capacity to use technology to support learning and an excellent teacher. Excellence in Teaching. data literacy for staff, vital to our school improvement plan and building capacity for more than twenty teaching staff. Andrew is a deserving recipient Stacey Jones of this award. Melanie Naylor Denison College of Secondary Kylie Lenhardt Hunter River High School Education – Kelso High Campus Murwillumbah High School Melanie Naylor has demonstrated exemplar Stacey Jones is an exceptionally intelligent, capable Kylie Lenhardt is an outstanding teacher who is leadership within her own faculty and across the and committed teaching professional. Her deep achieving above the Australian Professional Standards. school. She is a trusted leader, who through her knowledge and understanding of her teaching She holds exceptional rapport with her Y7-12 students passion for public education and personal integrity, syllabi, the Australian Professional Standards for whom she inspires to grow as learners and parents has achieved the highest HSC value-added data Teachers and a wide range of important educational and colleagues hold her in high regard. As leader of across multiple subjects in the past ten years. research makes her an invaluable leader across the Stage-4 Kylie is influential in the re-imagining of our Melanie’s innovative approach to teacher quality entire school community. Stacey's high expectations team-based program; a catalyst for transformation is foregrounded in evidence-based professional drive best practice within and beyond the school of learning across the school. Kylie's passion and learning. Through a coaching instructional leader gates, ensuring that the positive impact her work commitment is influencing whole-school impact on model, Melanie upskilled the executive team has on student outcomes spreads far beyond learning, assessment and the development of student which has created the conditions for sustained her classroom walls. Stacey makes teaching and led showcases. One of her students recently described improvement in student outcomes with a collective learning exciting and her dynamic and curious nature Kylie as 'paving the way for young female teachers and staff efficacy that we can all make a difference if we makes her an invaluable collaborator. leaders.' Kylie Lenhardt is an asset to public education. work together as a team.

18 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 19 SECRETARY’S AWARD FOR Ian Preston Suzanne Sherrington Murrumbidgee Regional Doonside Technology High School High School EXCELLENCE SERVICE Ian Preston has been an educational leader and Suzanne Sherrington is a passionate and skilful innovator for the past 30 years. His work to establish early career teacher who exemplifies the Australian the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence and Professional Standards for Teachers. Her deep the NSW Virtual STEM Academy in the has knowledge of her students and the way they learn, positioned the region as STEM educational leaders. inclusive of their cultural and family context, enables He has demonstrated excellence in all areas of her to ensure that each and every student is known, RECIPIENT CITATIONS teaching, leadership, and engagement with the broader valued and cared for. Suzanne’s classes are vibrant educational community. Ian’s commitment to the ideals learning environments in which students are of public education makes him a most suitable recipient encouraged to strive for personal and group success, of the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. resulting in both academic and personal growth. Jannan Assaad Saturday School of Community Simone Billinghurst Languages Bringelly Public School Jannan Assaad is an outstanding educator, who is Simone Billinghurst is a passionate educator Carolyn Ratcliffe Inoke Tuhukava driven by her passionate commitment to ensuring dedicated to improving the education opportunities Albury High School the best learning experiences for all students to for students, bringing positive change to their futures develop their language skills and deepen their Carolyn Ratcliffe is an inspirational leader in the Inoke Tuhukava has a passion for the holistic and to their communities in the 21st century. She intercultural understanding in a rich and dynamic classroom and across the school. She is an expert development of students and a strong understanding has devoted her time in increasing the professional school environment. She supports over 3,000 teacher who has mentored staff members to replicate of the connections between physical development, skills of others, particularly in the understanding students across 14 campuses and has developed her excellent HSC results across the faculty. Her learning and emotional wellbeing. Among other and development of Aboriginal Education. Her and implemented intensive training programs for input has her subject regularly above state average programs and initiatives, Inoke has developed the Big commitment has been demonstrated in advancing in HSC results. Her passion for teaching is evident. teachers in the use of innovative and effective educational leadership through action research and in Hill fitness and physical development program. Twice technologies to enrich their teaching and learning She is also as passionate about student wellbeing a week students come to school early to participate partnership with Western Sydney University through working as HT Wellbeing where she supports staff programs in face-to-face and remote contexts. together in group and individualised programs. With the EPIC initiatives and working with other executive and students equally in a complex world. Carolyn is She fosters ingenuity and models this to all staff a great sense of camaraderie and a positive culture, teachers in three networks. Simone is very respected an expert in mediation and developing resilience in while encouraging them to take risks with their own students are comfortable to push the limits of what amongst her fellow teachers and executives in students and this impacts on the learning climate for professional learning and growth through technology. they think they are capable of. Inoke has the students’ creating pathways to improve students outcomes. all staff, improving educational outcomes. She is an respect and admiration and he exemplifies passion exceptional award recipient. and commitment for students and the school. Fiona Baillie Sahin Bostanci Michael Richards Campbellfield Public School Scott Waring Lindfield Learning Village Rutherford Technology Fiona Baillie’s passion and dedication to public Great Lakes College High School education shines through in her daily work as a Within the brief to develop a New Educational Model Senior Campus and the opportunity to thrive in repurposed and Michael Richards is an excellent classroom practitioner School Learning and Support Officer. She is a fierce rejuvenated spaces we need exceptional people attempting to always gain high student outcomes Scott Waring is an exceptional Highly Accomplished advocate for all children, but particularly for those to curate and shape the way we inhabit them. through an innovative and engaging classroom Teacher who has achieved significant results with disabilities and complex needs. She uses her Sahin Bostanci cares deeply about both the spaces environment. As well as being an exceptional classroom across the science and mathematics curriculum expertise developed over 14 years of service, to and the people in them. He works tirelessly to practitioner, Michael is a leader in professional areas. Students in his class, despite their social and empower children, staff and families to work in a development and inclusiveness within the school. He environmental disadvantage, have performed above partnership, leading to happy, successful students. solve challenges that are impacting on the work is extremely supportive of his CAPA colleagues and state average. This is due to his ability to develop Fiona has been pivotal in improving student of teachers, and the learning of students. Sahin models exemplary skills to lead initiatives within the meaningful relationships with his students, foster a engagement and wellbeing through innovative is invested in the culture of Lindfield Learning Faculty. He supports colleagues using current and culture of high expectations and an ability to engage whole school initiatives such as the establishment Village and imbues his attitude with our values of comprehensive knowledge of content and teaching learners. As our Head Teacher Secondary Studies, of our sensory room, supporting families through collaboration and creativity, and he uses this mindset strategies to develop and implement engaging learning Scott has strategically planned, facilitated and Campbellfield Connex and implementing the Be You to beautify and lift our village. and teaching programs. Michael is an advocate evaluated whole school professional learning activities Mental Health framework. for, participates in and leads strategies to support that have increased staff capacity to engage with high high-quality professional learning opportunities for impact, evidenced based teaching strategies. colleagues that focus on improved student learning.

20 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 21 Aunty Kim Chan Jen Greig James Harris Emma Mackenzie Marrickville Public School Merrylands East Public School Heaton Public School Padstow North Public School Aunty Kim Chan is the heart of our school. She Jen Greig is an outstanding Instructional Leader. At James Harris is an outstanding contributor to Emma Mackenzie is an exceptional educator and knows and cares for every single student, and every Merrylands East Public School her leadership has public education. His work as an SLSO to support students are the centre of her practice. Her true member of staff and the school community. Kim contributed to the shifts in Merrylands East Public our diverse community has been second to none. passion is wellbeing and building confident, resilient makes everyone feel welcome and always makes School summative assessment results over the He has formed relationships with all our EAL/D and and self directed young people. Emma is the schools time for those who need it, in spite of her significant past three years. In 2019, 56% of Year 3 students refugee students and has gone above and beyond learning and support coordinator and enriches the workload as a busy admin manager. As a proud in NAPLAN were in the two top bands in Writing to learn his craft to become a classroom teacher all lives of students and families through her contact. Wiradjuri woman, Kim mentors and encourages our with 57% in the top two bands in Spelling and our whilst managing his fulltime studies. James has a She builds strong collaborative partnerships with Aboriginal students to be their very best, and holds Year 3 girls were above state average in NAPLAN huge career ahead of him and we are so proud of him colleagues, families, support organisations and high expectations of them. She also shares her Writing and spelling compared to the state cohort. receiving this award. students resulting in a school culture that nurtures culture and knowledge with the whole community Jen shares this skill set with her staff and the wider and cares. She has implemented a whole school which inspires and guides us to better connect with educational community through her leadership of the social and emotional program, lst framework that Country and Culture. Instructional Leaders network. captures and tracks the needs of students and her wellbeing knowledge is sought across schools. Matthew Johnson She is an exceptional leader. Glenvale School Matthew Johnson is an excellent principal within the Don Dwarte Nathan Gunter Mooney Mooney Principal Network, Regional North. Picnic Point Public School Wagga Wagga High School He has a strong commitment to serving students in Don Dwarte, the General Assistant at Picnic Point Wagga Wagga High School considers Nathan complex settings and pursuing quality outcomes. Brian O'Hora Public School, has worked here for 18 years. Don is a Gunter to be an outstanding teacher and Deputy Matthew has extensive experience and knowledge Finley High School humble, dedicated and hard working member of staff Principal who demonstrates the personal qualities in the area of special education. His experience and Brian O’Hora always goes beyond to ensure Finley who gives above and beyond to support improving of collaboration, inclusivity, and empathy with all dedication to serving students with disabilities and High School is a safe and engaging environment. the school environment for students, staff, parents members of the school and wider community. complex needs has formed a significant part of his He continually works with staff, students and wider and the community. Despite his small stature, no Nathan is committed to improving the educational career. Currently Matthew is leading a complex multi community to provide the utmost of outcomes in job is too big for Don. He has done everything from and wellbeing outcomes of all students and has used site special school. He is committed to equity and every area. He is a positive member of staff who over building puppet shows to creating new garden data and technology to support staff and students inclusive practices and is a proud Department of the years has built great rapport with those working beds, assembling basketball hoops to building to achieve these outcomes. He is held in high regard Education public school leader. with him. There is never a task too big for Brian, he bespoke furniture and more. Don is an amazing by all members of the community and ensures that thinks holistically to benefit all involved. He is greatly asset and we appreciate everything he does, and the every student is known and cared for. Nathan aims appreciated within his role as General Assistant and numerous hours that he volunteers above his work to ensure all students are responsible, resilient, also in our community. requirements. Thank you, Don! happy and well rounded global citizens. Ana Latu Thomas Reddall High School Ana Latu is an outstanding educational leader who has made a significant contribution to improving Tamlyn Phillips Blake Graham Robyn Harmon teaching and learning in Mathematics and Numeracy. Ulladulla High School Ulladulla High School Ballina Public School She has transformed educational programs to Tamlyn Phillips, our extraordinary and hardworking Blake Graham has been an exceptional TSO at all Robyn Harmon is a passionate and dedicated ensure they are inclusive, engaging and rigorous. Senior Psychologist, Education has been an levels. He embraces new and emerging technologies educator who models exemplary integrity and As an outstanding teacher and role model, mentor incredible support to our school for many years. Her which has allowed the school to be agile in its professionalism in all areas of her life. She is a and leader, Ana has made significant improvements work has had a tremendously positive impact on response to meeting the learning needs of our steadfast advocate for human rights and improving to the teaching practice and capacity of those she our school through her ability to empower schools students. He has brilliantly supported implementation: young people's outcomes in every way. As Assistant supervises. This has led to exceptional growth in and provide us with the tools we need to build safe Telstra Edge, ET4L rollouts, device use, COVID Principal Learning and Support, Robyn works shoulder the areas of Mathematics and Numeracy. Ana’s communities. Her service and care on wellbeing Learning at home help desk, our Canteen Flexi- to shoulder with a variety of staff across different exceptional interpersonal skills and strong work ethic measures is significant. Despite the slow wearing schools, School Bytes, our School App, and all the settings to support students to ensure their needs mean that she is well respected by her students, impact of COVID 19, bushfire impact, tragic loss of a learning platforms that have been initiated over the are met, and potential outcomes are exceeded. She colleagues, parents and the wider community. Ana is student and growing demands of wellbeing issues last several years. The school’s reputation as being embodies the Department of Education's values, and very deserving awardee. in our schools/community, Tamlyn has always been a technology innovator is largely due to Blake’s takes on challenges with dedication and commitment superb in the support of our students. A wonderful incredible ability to support the school community. to overcoming disadvantage and adversity to improve person, deserving of this recognition. A team player, hardworking, helpful and enthusiastic! the community we live in.

22 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 23 SECRETARY’S AWARD FOR Brenda Pyett Endeavour Sports High School OUTSTANDING SCHOOL Brenda Pyett has been the Head Teacher of Endeavour’s Special Education Unit (SEU) for two INITIATIVE decades. Under Brenda’s leadership the unit has grown to 73 students and is regarded as an exemplar within the Sutherland Shire and beyond. Realising that standard funding of special needs was inadequate, RECIPIENT CITATIONS a decade ago Brenda created the Endeavour Special Kids With A Disability (SKWAD) charity. SKWAD has since raised nearly $1 million to provide additional Auburn North Public School Hunter River High School resources and experiences for the SEU’s students. Use of Video for Self-Reflection Learning Opportunities for Tomorrow Brenda is an outstanding school leader with an and Peer-Reflection Hunter River High School has utilised COVID funding unrivaled dedication to students with a disability, Auburn North’s ‘Use of Video for Self-Reflection support to design the Learning Opportunities for the Endeavour community and public education. and Peer-Reflection’ initiative was implemented in Tomorrow (LOFT) program to provide targeted, semester 2, 2020 to improve leadership, teaching evidence-based withdrawal support to drive literacy and learning outcomes. The initiative involved leaders and numeracy improvement. The team of passionate reflecting on videos of themselves leading teacher public-school educators was strategically formulated Shannon Stanbridge professional development programs, workshops, to match the specific needs of students. High Scarborough Public School and sessions, and teachers teaching lessons, with student engagement has been achieved through leaders and teachers receiving feedback from innovative approaches to teaching reading, writing Shannon Stanbridge’s outstanding practice has colleagues after they had watched the videos and numeracy skills whilst enhancing student been instrumental in the development of an inclusive themselves. Leaders were filmed leading data wellbeing and engagement. Whole school data walls learning environment at Scarborough Public School. conversations, leadership development programs, support a purposeful student-centred approach She invests her time and energy into every student in professional learning workshops, and teaching to knowing every student, including their areas, her care, identifying their specific needs and the most lessons using the school’s Instructional Model. strengths and improvement. appropriate adjustments to assist them to engage Teachers were filmed teaching lessons to facilitate in a mainstream classroom environment. She works self-reflection and peer-reflection. Data shows this Liverpool Boys High School in close collaboration with the classroom teacher, initiative significantly improved leadership, teaching Big Picture Academy taking on feedback to continually refine her practice. and learning outcomes. Shannon's proactive approach, combined with her Liverpool Boys High School is one of the only schools strong emotional intelligence enables her to identify Hoxton Park High School within Sydney to host a Big Picture Academy. Big Picture is an opportunity for students to pursue student trigger points and challenges before they Stage 5 Moving Forward Program escalate, establishing a trusting environment where their passions and interests through deep learning every student feels known, valued and cared for. With a vision that all students will leave school experiences. Putting students at the centre of with a career path, we developed a Stage 5 Moving decisions around what, how and when they learn is Forward Class to support disengaged students the key to nurturing the next generations of engaged, with an authentic transition plan. The program is independent learners. Students combine academic Luz Velez designed to assist students in becoming ‘job ready’ work with real-world internships, use their head, Kogarah High School Intensive whilst completing both their ROSA and Certificate heart and hands to explore their world and plan English Centre qualifications. The school works in partnership their own pathways to future employment, study or Luz Velez is a valued member of the education with TAFE NSW, My Gateway, SkillsRoad, Job Quest, enterprise. community. Her tireless work with newly arrived Bunnings and Motor Trade Association to shape students within Kogarah Intensive English Centre students' understanding of the world of work and and Kogarah High School provide a calm port in the the role education plays in their success to future otherwise stormy seas our students face during pathways. Students successfully transition to either the resettlement period. Ms Velez actively seeks an apprenticeship, full-time TAFE or traineeship. opportunities for students to be supported at school, whether that is running maths clinics, operating Breakfast Club or being there as a friendly listener. Her commitment to public education is certainly impressive.

24 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 25 Murray High School NSW School of Languages Engagement and Transition Centre Stage 6 Online Languages Courses The Engagement and Transition Centre provides NSW School of Languages offers distance education targeted support to students at risk of disengaging languages to 2600 students from all education from schooling. It builds capacity in students, sectors. Teacher-writers have developed ten new including all students returning from suspension, on online language courses which bring together the how to re-engage at school, re-integrate to positive latest research in languages pedagogy and the work habits and prevent recurrence of inappropriate best use of technology. Early results have shown behaviours. It has provided holistic support from increased student engagement with the courses classroom teachers, behaviour staff, wellbeing staff, and students are demonstrating greater skills in and careers adviser. The Centre has seen an increase authentic language use. Teachers have developed in participating students’ academic outcomes and their skills in the use of collaborative, project-based attendance, a substantial decrease in inappropriate focus tasks and in giving meaningful feedback. behaviour; and has enhanced the school’s standing Teachers are able to differentiate for individual in the local community by demonstrating the ability learners and ensure that students meet the high to support all students to engage with education. expectations presented by the courses. Murrumbidgee Regional High School Prairiewood High School Australia New Zealand STEM Education Reaching for the Stars Alliance The Astronomy and Space Science program is one of The Australia New Zealand STEM Education Alliance the High Performing and Gifted Education initiatives (ANZSEA) program is an example of how an effective that extend student learning at Prairiewood High STEM program can benefit like-minded students School. The school boasts an onsite observatory in regional and rural locations not only in NSW and and two state-of-the-art telescopes that bring Australia but also internationally. Partnering with Science learning to life. These resources support the companies such as IBM, students in the ANZSEA pilot implementation of an exceptional and unique Stage have gained deeper STEM knowledge. They have 5 Astronomy curriculum elective that is built into become insightful problem solvers and confident school culture and organisation. Further extension online collaborators. The success of ANZSEA has led opportunities exist for Year 7-12 students including: to MRHS being selected to introduce the NSW Virtual stargazing nights with students, staff and parent/ STEM Academy. This will provide more students with carers; participation in the PHS Astronomy Club, the ability to develop 21st Century skill development Astronomy camps and excursions to Questacon and particularly in collaboration and complex problem Universities supporting Science education. solving. Murwillumbah High School Partners in Learning Murwillumbah High School's Partners in Learning initiative addresses the question ‘How can we positively impact on learning by enhancing partnership with students, parents and staff?’ The initiative is underpinned by three key activities: 1. Teaching and non-teaching staff meet regularly sharing strategies to improve learning for each Stage group; 2. Teachers, students and parents partner in collaborative observation of learning in action; 3. Student led conferences involve families, teaching and non-teaching staff and student peers. Every student in Y8-10 now has a learning coach and an individual learning plan. The Project has seen a significant increase in parental involvement for Stage 4.

26 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 27 Caringbah North Public School Moree East Public School SECRETARY’S SCHOOL Connect 4 Wellbeing Program Learning for Life Cafeteria The C4 initiative that operates at Caringbah North Moree East Public School deserves recognition for ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Public School is an exemplar of holistic practice the successful implementation of a healthy school that makes a daily difference to the lives of cafeteria for every child, every school day. From the children. Through this peer learning model based onset, the whole school community has highly valued around concepts of equitable relationships, social and supported this project. Their determination and and emotional learning, individual and collective effort in working together has contributed greatly to achievement, students and staff demonstrate the the positive impacts on students, families and our core elements that are foundational to the virtues community. The school is proud of our achievements RECIPIENT CITATIONS of public education. The C4 initiative is an authentic and of the numerous examples of recognition collaborative model that focus upon wellbeing, received from students, staff, parents/carers, Callaghan College learning and leadership for all at CNPS. It is a practice parliamentarians, businesses/organisations, within Albury High School that respects the profession of teaching, respects and beyond Moree. We are dedicated to continuous Pivotal Wellbeing – Jesmond Senior Campus the optimistic potential of students and respects the evidence-based improvement, focusing on “Closing Utilising data on student wellbeing from the School – Wallsend Campus values of public education. the Gap” outcomes as a catalyst for generational Excellence Framework, External Validation process – Waratah Campus change. it was evident that to achieve our desired outcome Glenbrook Public School Faculty Leadership Improvement Project of every child being cared for, safe and engaged a Quality Teaching Coordinator Towradgi Public School change to policy and practice was needed. A whole We are very proud of our outstanding College The Quality Teaching Coordinator role at Glenbrook School Wellbeing Framework – A Positive school team was formed and student input gathered. Instructional Leaders. Through the College 'FLIP' Public School has proven to be invaluable in School Experience For All A researched informed direction based on the work initiative they have each demonstrated a value of the improvement of outcomes in learning. The A team of dedicated staff guided by Assistant of Dr Helen Street and Paul Dix was formed and leading for impact and have developed a high level initiative has been presented to a number of Principal, Brent Pritchard and Wellbeing Team embedded in our School Plan. Results have validated skillset. Each of them have effectively led a targeted schools, who are now incorporating aspects of this Coordinator, Aimee Woodley have worked intensely our approach with a reduction in suspensions and project to address an area of need in their faculty. project. The initiative has been sustainable over over two years to bring this initiative to fruition. It students playing and interacting in a positive manner They have built the capacity of others through time, demonstrating measurable improvement in involved an intense and honest self-reflection on in the playground, a real whole school team effort. distributed leadership and most importantly have student outcomes over a number of curriculum school practices, surveys of all stakeholders and impacted positively on the learning culture of our areas. Website development for the QTC project research. The team created a wellbeing framework Auburn North Public School entire College. provides quality resourcing for the ongoing support to support all students to build resilience, show Collaborative School Culture of teachers. The authentic connection between; empathy and promote positive self-esteem and ‘Auburn North’s Culture of Collaborative Leadership Caringbah North Public School School Improvement Plan, SEF, Performance and relationships with others. Social-emotional learning, and Teaching’ was developed in response to Jannali Public School Development (HIPL) and What Works Best in Practice Aboriginal wellbeing practices and a supportive research and other evidence that demonstrate leader is what validates the project at the highest level. approach to mental health are key aspects. The and teacher collaboration significantly improves Miranda North Public School framework is aligned to NSW syllabus outcomes collective teacher efficacy, teaching programs and 4C Community of Practice and reflect ACARA’s Personal and Social Capability practices, and student outcomes. The school’s The sustainability of transformative practices that Learning Continuum. leaders and teachers have collaboratively developed focus on the continual development of the whole and implemented a range of high- quality programs child are sadly rarely achievable in schools and Winmalee Public School Whole School Achievement including improvement plans, curriculum, scope even rarer within community of practices (CoP) that and sequence plans, and teaching and professional span across schools. These initiatives often fail for Winmalee Public School has applied a data driven learning programs. Data show the school’s a myriad of reasons. The commitment of CNPS, approach to shift pedagogy and teacher practice. collaborative culture, and its programs and practices, MNPS and JPS to sustain a 4C CoP is founded on This has improved student learning outcomes across have significantly contributed to the development the significant impact that this is having on their all domains. The staff at Winmalee Public School of an outstanding school learning community where students, staff and broader community. This is have re-imagined their collective purpose, built a leaders and teachers have worked cohesively an outstanding school initiative that has a strong culture of shared understanding and focus, and have together to achieve outstanding outcomes. collaborated to provide the highest quality teaching future in significantly having a positive effect on the and learning experiences for staff. The outcomes of possible futures of students across the 3 schools. their hard work and rigorous focus on improvement through looking inward, looking outward and moving forward are many. However at the heart of their work are the best interests and maximum growth for each of their students.

28 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 29 PUBLIC SCHOOL PARENT OF THE YEAR AWARD

RECIPIENT CITATIONS

Dianne Bentley Anna McFarlane Ben and Swannida Stewart Bringelly Public School Rose Bay Secondary College Harrington Street Public School Di Bentley is a very worthy recipient of the Parent of Anna McFarlane has demonstrated extraordinary Ben and Swannida Stewart are highly respected and the Year Award. She has been part of the school’s dedication to the Music Ensemble Program (MEP) valued parents of Harrington Street Public School P&C since 2018, Treasurer and Canteen Manager for at Rose Bay Secondary College. She has served and have both been a strong voice for parents three years very dedicated to maintaining the Healthy on the parent committee of MEP for seven years. across the community for a number of years. They are dedicated long time members of the school P&C Canteen status the school was awarded in 2019 Anna is generous in giving of her time, passion and by making most of the food. She also operates the committee and have volunteered endless hours expertise to the Music Ensemble Program and has P&C’s uniform shop. Her passion for helping others in coordinating and assisting with fundraisers and raised thousands of dollars through fundraising flows onto her family which comprises of her own community events that have benefited the students, to ensure instruments can be purchased and high family and eight foster children. The Bringelly staff staff and community of Harrington Street Public have the highest respect for Di and her dedication to quality tutors can be employed to support this now School. Ben served as school captian at HSPS in family, community and the school. thriving program. 1992, and their children are third generation HSPS students, which shows their strong connection with the school and community. They are outstanding recipients of this award. Danielle Harris Helen Mundy Ulladulla High School Wagga Wagga High School Danielle Harris has been a devoted and loyal parent Helen Mundy is a worthy recipient of the Public who has supported the school to purchase a bus School Parent of the Year award. She has been a to provide students the opportunity to travel and highly respected and valued member of the Wagga enrich their learning experiences. She has supported Wagga High School P&C since 2017 and a strong the evolution of the canteen into an outstanding voice for the parents of the WWHS community. hearty healthy canteen serving our 1270 strong Helen’s commitment has been unwavering and students superb food. Her enthusiasm during Covid her enthusiasm and positive leadership have been restrictions to support isolated parents and ensure appreciated by all members of the P&C and school the meetings progressed, albeit online, and despite community. Her unwavering support and dedication the hesitation and the technical challenges was to public education make her a respected member outstanding. Danielle managed during all the ups of WWHS and the wider community. and downs of COVID to keep the parents supported and engaged. A terrific person deserving of this recognition.

30 Public Education Foundation 2021 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence 31 We Give Life-Changing Scholarships

The Public Education Foundation is a not- for-profit organisation dedicated to providing life-changing scholarships to young people in public education and enhancing the value and reputation of public schools across Australia. Our scholarships identify and support potential, based on need, and individual excellence amongst students and educators in the public education system. Scholarships for students from refugee backgrounds Investing in Scholarships for students with a physical education disability Scholarships for students with an interest To support the important role played in social justice by public education in ensuring fair, equitable and high-quality education Primary and for all, you can donate to the Public scholarships for Indigenous students Education Foundation. The Foundation is committed to building long-term Scholarships for primary students to partnerships with business and support them through their critical years philanthropic organisations to achieve of schooling the best results for educational goals. Scholarships for Principals, Teachers and We work with our partners to create Emerging Leaders a scholarship package for particular areas of disadvantage and/or help The Foundation works in collaboration with students pursue excellence in particular the Education Departments around Australia, curriculum areas. schools, communities, individuals, the private sector, government agencies and unions to help students achieve their full potential and Donate now: acknowledge teaching and learning excellence givenow.com.au/ in the public education system. publiceducationfoundation

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