Excellence 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for - Public Education Foundation
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We Gi v e L i fe - C h a n g i n g S c h o l a r sh i p s 2020 Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence
Welcome
It is an absolute pleasure to present the winners of the 2020
Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence. These
Awards showcase the exceptional work that occurs every day
across NSW public education – by schools, students, teachers,
employees and parents.
One of the Public Education Foundation’s primary roles is to
celebrate the best of public schooling, and the Minister’s and
Secretary’s Awards do that in spades. The Foundation is proud
to manage the Awards on behalf of The Hon. Sarah Mitchell
MLC, Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning
and Mr Mark Scott AO, Secretary of the NSW Department
of Education.
In normal times, we would be meeting this week for a large
Awards ceremony, but this year COVID-19 means that we are
recognising our winners locally in their school environments.
That does nothing to diminish the quality of the winners
we are celebrating. You will read here about outstanding
contributions and innovative initiatives from across NSW,
from community drought relief at Trundle Central School
to Wellbeing Wednesday at Canterbury Boys High.
Finally, I want to share a quick reminder that our 2021
scholarship round for primary and secondary students are
closing soon. We have hundreds of scholarships to award,
including new scholarships for Indigenous and regional
and remote students. Head to our website and take a look!
We hope to see you back in person for next year’s
Award ceremony.
David Hetherington
Executive Director
Public Education Foundation
2 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence Public Education Foundation 3
Award Recipients
Minister’s Awards Minister’s Award
for Excellence for Excellence in
in Student Teaching
Achievement
Recognising outstanding Year Annabel Knight Kayla Tiga Recognising teachers who deliver Craig Roder
12 students who have excelled Strathfield Girls High School Girraween High School the highest quality education to James Fallon High School
in their secondary years across their students and contribute to
Anson Lee Aimy Trang Mika Rodic
academic excellence, sports, their professional communities.
Fort Street High School Hurlstone Agricultural Prairiewood High School
cultural, community and High School Zainab Bazzi
leadership. Joshua Levin Aaron Routh
Merrylands High School
Whitebridge High School Holly Trikilis Orange High School
Akash Biradar Bossley Park High School Kellie Chapman
Endeavour Sports High School Wendy Li Nagiha Sahyouni
Amy Wade Turvey Park Public School Doonside Technology High School
Penrith High School
Kristie Caplikas Sydney Girls High School Michelle Collison
Prairiewood High School Imogen McDonald Conie Sinnott
Elizabeth Waugh Thomas Reddall High School Murwillumbah High School
Inverell High School
Alexandra Carroll Dorrigo High School Rebecca Ferris
NBSC Mackellar Girls Campus Cassandra McMurdo Jake Tonkin
Elderslie High School Ryde Secondary College
Jacob Carson Elderslie High School
Nick Forrester Georgia Valatiadis
Lambton High School Jade Mudge Murwillumbah High School Prairiewood High School
Nicholas Cavanaugh Ulladulla High School
David Gillard Katerina Zito
Bossley Park High School Edward Prescott Wagga Wagga High School Ryde Secondary College
Rowan Chate Wagga Wagga High School
Karen Gourlay
Cumberland High School Mackenzie Purtill-Wright The Forest High School
Elka Devney Wagga Wagga High School
Dion Hobbins
Moree Secondary College Swathy Raveendran Murwillumbah High School
Georgia Elphinston Lambton High School
Sheree Jones
Prairiewood High School Jacob Read Dubbo College Delroy Campus
Bridget Gard Corowa High School
Rhonda Kaidbay
Fort Street High School Maddison Reichert Ryde Secondary College
Mackenzie Gilligan West Wallsend High School Tania Maddison
Merewether High School Annalise Robertson Wagga Wagga High School
Natasha Goundar Macksville High School Megan Mitchell
Merrylands High School Molly Robinson Airds High School
Sophia Hadjimichael Jindabyne Central School Candice Morris-Grant
Penrith High School Rowan Silcock Murwillumbah High School
Piper Harrison North Sydney Boys High School Janet Phillips
NBSC Mackellar Girls Campus Lachlan Taylor Revesby Public School
Purvi Kapur Elderslie High School Mat Rhodes
Cumberland High School Dapto High School
4 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence Public Education Foundation 5
Secretary’s Secretary’s Award
Award for Excellent for Outstanding
Service School Initiative
Recognising NSW Department of Stephen Keogh The award is presented to NSW Liverpool Boys High School
Education employees (teaching Campbelltown Performing Arts public schools demonstrating Take Over Project
and non-teaching) who have High School via a specific program, event or
shown outstanding effort in initiative their commitment to Rooty Hill High School
Nick Littlewood teaching and learning outcomes, Entrepreneurial Learning
improving the quality of teaching,
Orange High School Initiative
learning outcomes and/or school leadership, supporting the
environments in the NSW public Melissa Milburn students and/or creating a Strathfield Girls High School
education sector. Thomas Reddall High School sustainable learning environment. Improving Student Learning
Jade Arnold Nick Patsianis Auburn North Public School Outcomes through Tracking
Galston High School Morriset High School COVID-19 Blended Approach to Profile Data
Joanne Petterson Flexible Learning Project The Forest High School
Bradley Bannister
Delegate Public School Endeavour Sports High School Canterbury Boys High School Trailblazer Program
Denise Russell Wellbeing Wednesday
Lee Bateman Trundle Central School
Airds High School Elderslie High School Chifley College Senior Community Drought Relief
Denise Smith Campus Ulladulla High School
Rachel Byrne HSC Minimum Standards
Prairiewood High School A Mindful School – Room to
Hunter Sports High School
Jessica Yell Cowra High School Breathe
Leanne Colley Learning Hub Initiative
Oran Park Public School West Wallsend High School
Ulladulla High School
Deniliquin High School Powerful Practices for Improved
Gabrielle Curry Sustainability 2.0 Reading Performance
Ulladulla High School
Elderslie Public School
Cherie Edwards Student Leadership: Ministries
Thomas Reddall High School
EZEC Network
Ben Gerard Learning from Home Project
Doonside Technology High School
Gateway Learning
Christopher Haberecht Community
Guildford Public School Early Years Intervention: Strong
Lyn Harris Start, Successful Learners
James Fallon High School
Ric Hutchinson
Red Range Public School
Sharon Jenness
West Wallsend High School
6 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence Public Education Foundation 7
Minister’s Award for
Excellence in Student Alexandra Carroll
Secretary’s School Public School Achievement NBSC Mackellar Girls Campus
Achievement Parent of the Year Alexandra Carroll has distinguished herself in every
aspect of her school life. As School Captain, Alexandra
Award has been exemplary; with strong leadership capabilities
Recipient Citations matched with a most caring, positive manner. She
This prestigious award Hill End Public School The Public School Parent of the has consistently displayed integrity and responsibility,
recognises NSW public schools Immersive Classroom Program Year Award is a prestigious award and is always a productive individual. Alexandra has
that have successfully created a presented to parents, guardians distinguished herself academically in all her subjects
sustainable learning environment Ingleburn Public School and by her selection for the National Constitutional
and caregivers who have made
through a whole-of-school PCIT at School Convention. Alexandra’s exceptionally high personal
a significant contribution to
standards and her contributions to the community
project. Schools receiving Kurri Kurri High School their local NSW public school Akash Biradar make her an outstanding role model. Her talent is
this award must demonstrate Peer Critique community. Endeavour Sports High School further evidenced by her varied sporting, cultural and
significant improvement
Kurri Kurri High School Erika Crevatin Akash Biradar is an outstanding young man who is community achievements and her prolific fundraising
in learning outcomes and a role model student. Akash is highly academic, an for charity.
Staged Learning Approach Wagga Wagga High School
opportunities, excellence in exceptional sportsman, a natural leader, respectful
student learning, maximising Murwillumbah High School Penny Haldane of others and someone who clearly loves his school.
learning opportunities for all Collaborative Leadership Blaxland East Public School Akash was dux of Year 11 and after serving as a long
students as well as community and Learning
Camilla Hoddle term member of the SRC was elected as the male
Jacob Carson
leadership. Saturday School of Carroll Public School School Captain for 2019-20. Since 2018 he has been
Lambton High School
Charlestown South Public Community Languages Tracey Petruszenko the Endeavour Sports’ Opens Cricket Captain &
Collaborative 7 to 10 Languages squad leader, a sport for which he has competed at Jacob Carson is an outstanding, highly motivated and
School Elderslie Public School dedicated student with an enquiring mind. He has
Explicit Instruction Whole School Syllabus Implementation a state level. Akash comprehensively displays the
Deb Radvan consistently attained excellent scholastic achievement
Program Project values of integrity, excellence, respect, responsibility,
Valentine Public School in all areas, including distinguished achievement in
cooperation, participation, care and fairness.
Chifley College Senior Sir Joseph Banks High accelerated HSC Mathematics in Year 11. A dedicated
Campus School Kathryn Reynolds high achiever in all his endeavours, Jacob has made
Senior Pathways Transition Nicholson Street Public School significant contributions and led improvements to his
Literacy and Numeracy
school and community, through his commitment and
Claymore Public School Lesley Rowley
Kristie Caplikas leadership in the SRC and as School Captain. Jacob
Delegate Public School
Achievement of Significant embodies the core values of public education and this is
Prairiewood High School
Improvement in Educational Melanie Saunders demonstrated by his passionate and tireless support of
Outcomes and Opportunities Northern Beaches Secondary Kristie Caplikas is a worthy recipient of the 2020 fellow students and staff and community groups. Jacob
for Students College – Cromer Campus Minister’s Award for Student Excellence! Her ability is a worthy recipient of this award.
to triumph in multiple fields of student leadership,
Amanda Shaw academics and sporting endeavour is inspiring,
The Forest High School infectious, and growing. In her proactive journey
Carol Vigo to become an astro-physicist, Kristie has used her
Nicholas Cavanaugh
Harrington Street Public School passion for astronomy and scientific inquiry to promote
the image of Prairiewood High, as a school of high Bossley Park High School
Peter Wilson achievement and learning excellence. Additionally, Nicholas Cavanaugh is an outstanding student. He is
Cowra High School quietly confident and has applied himself consistently
as a triathlon national champion, she embodies the
dedication, self-discipline and determination required to his academic studies to achieve excellent results.
to achieve sporting excellence; both as an individual His genuine and friendly personality, together with his
and teams’ competitor. Overall, Kristie is most willingness take on new challenges, and work with
peers and staff for school improvement has seen him
deserving of this honour.
elected as School Captain 2020. Nicholas is a deep
thinker and a leader in the school’s successful Robotics
Program. His leadership and involvement in robotics
competitions has seen him travel to Houston USA as
well as being instrumental in the achievement of the
award of Leader in Robotics – NSW Secondary Schools.
8 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence Public Education Foundation 9
Rowan Chate Bridget Gard Sophia Hadjimichael Annabel Knight
Cumberland High School Fort Street High School Penrith High School Strathfield Girls High School
Rowan Chate is an outstanding leader who has Bridget Gard excels academically and has been Sophia Hadjimichael is a high-achieving student who Annabel Knight is an all-rounder who has excelled both
demonstrated an unswerving commitment to the school awarded Speech Day prizes each year. As SRC excels across the curriculum. Her dedication to learning within and outside academia. She is a reliable, articulate
and broader community. Rowan has achieved with Vice-President 2018-2019 Bridget ran whole-school have earned her many wonderful accolades, including and respectable young person, who reflects the values
distinction in academic, cultural and creative pursuits and assemblies and the Speech Day ceremony at the the “2019 Rotary Club of Nepean Youth Award” for her of leadership and public education. She demonstrates
his dedication and diligent application have enabled him to Sydney Town Hall as well as representing the school outstanding contribution to the school/community and, a positive attitude in all her endeavours. Her academic
excel in all aspects of school life. His leadership as School at several formal functions. Bridget has been a long- her election as School Captain. In this role, Sophia has focus and encouragement of others make her an
Captain and across a range of extracurricular initiatives term member of the school’s Instrumental Music set an example of excellence in behaviour, leadership, outstanding candidate for a Minister’s Award for
including the IRIS Conference, Futures Project, Drama Program (Vocal Ensemble, Chamber Choir) including integrity and responsibility. Sophia’s academic excellence Excellence in Student Achievement in 2020. She is very
and Music Ensembles and volunteering in environmental their European Tour of 2018. For ten years she has also has continued, across the curriculum, throughout the deserving of the recognition as a student of excellence.
programs capture his extraordinary talents and exceptional been a leading member of the Greenlees Netball Club. past six years. She is truly a gifted student who always
commitment to service. Rowan’s exemplary citizenship Bridget brings dignity, poise and a natural affinity with strives for the highest in all that she does. Sophia
makes him a most worthy recipient of the Minister’s Award others to all her activities, making her an outstanding Hadjimichael is a most worthy candidate for this award.
for Excellence in Student Achievement. representative of public education.
Anson Lee
Fort Street High School
Anson Lee consistently demonstrates outstanding
Piper Harrison academic achievement, including Second-in-State
Elka Devney Mackenzie Gilligan NBSC Mackellar Girls Campus ranking for HSC Information Processes Technology as
Merewether High School Piper Harrison has demonstrated excellence in an accelerated student in 2018. He was awarded several
Moree Secondary College
Mackenzie Gilligan embodies public education and its every aspect of her school life. As School Captain, Speech Day prizes each year across all subject areas.
Elka Devney is an exemplary student whose diligence
values. He excels in the areas of academia, cultural Piper displays the strongest leadership, integrity Anson has applied his excellent coding skills in many
and determination is evident and she is held in high
involvement and sporting aspects. Mackenzie’s high and responsibility, and is a proactive and productive real-world scenarios, including the CSIRO’s Data61
regard by the community and school. Elka has been
personal standards ensure he extends himself, striving individual with a keen sense of the welfare of others. division, the “initiate48” start-up competition and the
an active member of our school’s AECG and in 2019,
to achieve at the highest possible level. He has been Piper has distinguished herself academically, 2020 National Computer Science Summer School.
Elka participated in the NSW DoE, Secretary for a Day
a true asset to the school and student body. His drive excelling to the highest level. Her National and State Anson was Principal Violinist of the school’s Symphony
program, won the Rotary Public Speaking Competition,
and high-level intelligence ensures he successfully achievements in Swimming, Athletics, Cross Country, and Philharmonic orchestras and String Ensemble,
the regional final of the Lions Youth of the Year meets the challenges he is presented. Mackenzie Surf Lifesaving and Triathlon, further evidence SRC Secretary, a Silver Duke of Edinburgh recipient and
competition and the ABC Heywire creative writing involves himself in school life and the wider community. Piper’s commitment to excellence and broad talent, Scout Troop President. In everything he does, Anson
competition. Elka actively involves herself in extra- He is highly respected by his peers, younger students her exceptionally high personal standards and her epitomises the very best of public education.
curricular activities, for example, school musicals and and staff. Mackenzie is a very worthy recipient contributions to community make her an outstanding
MADD showcases, has also qualified for State swimming of the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Student role model. Piper is a remarkable young woman, the
and is an active member of the Moree Youth Council. Achievement. consummate student of excellence.
Joshua Levin
Whitebridge High School
Georgia Elphinston Natasha Goundar Purvi Kapur
Joshua Levin has maturity beyond his years. He is
Prairiewood High School thoughtful and considered in all he does and is a natural
Merrylands High School Cumberland High School leader. Josh is School Captain giving much of his time
Georgia Elphinston is a Prairiewood High School Natasha Goundar is an outstanding HSC student Purvi Kapur’s excellence in academic achievement, to ensuring that students have a genuine and active
student, whose level of achievement across a broad who has excelled academically, socially and through exemplary citizenship, exceptional service and voice in the school. He contributes to the school and
range of school programs and community initiatives, numerous and significant leadership opportunities. commitment to the school and broader community have is a community leader for “Feel the Magic”. He has
is outstanding! As School Captain, she is an exemplary Natasha is currently the School Captain, the culmination enabled her to emerge as an outstanding leader. Purvi is continued to give back to this charity by supporting
leader, with skills and abilities honed through years of a long history of humble service as a member of our celebrated as a highly respected role-model within and its work and leading fundraising initiatives. Josh is an
of proactive involvement in student governance Student Representative Council (2015-20). Natasha is a beyond the school domain. Purvi has coordinated and academic high achiever who is dedicated to his studies,
and school sports development. Georgia’s innate student of whom our school is immensely proud, such contributed significantly to whole-school projects, cultural, and is a very worthy recipient of this award.
drive, in academic achievement and national sports as initiating the Sustainability Project and embracing sporting, music and community-based initiatives that
representation, has been a consistent attribute in her the visibility of the learning environment. Her integrity, have not only positively impacted Cumberland High School
pursuit of excellence. Her impressive self-discipline, respect, cooperation, refined civic values, active but also offered immense service to community partners.
willingness to take on a challenge, and application to participation, collaboration and leadership of the She is an exceptional leader who has contributed with
task combine to enable her to excel in all programs and school community make her a worthy recipient of this distinction to her school and local community making her
activities to which she commits. She is outstanding! prestigious award. a most worthy recipient of this prestigious award.
10 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence Public Education Foundation 11
Wendy Li Jade Mudge Swathy Raveendran Annalise Robertson
Lambton High School Macksville High School
Penrith High School Ulladulla High School
Swathy Raveendran is a creative, highly motivated Annalise Robertson is an exceptional student with a
Wendy Li is an exceptional student who excels across Jade Mudge is an exceptional young environmentalist
and dedicated student. She has consistently attained diverse range of talents. Annalise is highly motivated
the curriculum. Her dedication to learning have earned where her words are actions. She has moved her school
excellent scholastic achievement in all areas, including and has excelled academically through her dedication
her the prestigious 2019 Stuart Aryes All Rounder and her community to actively make a difference from
distinguished achievement in accelerated HSC Visual to her studies. She demonstrates passion, fairness and
Award for her outstanding excellence in learning, ensuring that our local youth ‘Take 3 For the Sea’, that
Art in Year 11. A dedicated high achiever in all her integrity in her leadership roles and always displays
sports, leadership and community. This commitment they consciously understand and make efforts around
endeavours, Swathy has made significant contributions a strong sense of empathy, advocacy and justice for
to learning and her engagement with school and climate change encouraged and led by Jade. Jade
and led improvements to her school, region and others. She willingly participates in Youth forums
co-curricular activities is a trend evident throughout has the ability and the perseverance to balance her
community, through her academic achievements and utilising her public speaking skills to ensure the voice
Wendy’s six years at school. Wendy sets an example commitment to her academic achievement with serving
leadership in the SRC and as School Vice-Captain. of regional youth is heard. She generously volunteers
of excellence in behaviour, leadership, integrity and her school and her community. Her commitment and
Swathy is passionate about serving others, her her time in organising numerous fundraising activities
responsibility. She is a gifted student who has always leadership as the School Captain and to her work on
community, her language and culture and has been and school functions. Annalise is a young person
followed our school motto of “Altiora Peto” – “Striving the projects for the Student Representative Council are
recognised for her significant contributions to school with fine qualities who will meet all opportunities with
for the highest” and is a most worthy candidate for outstanding. An extraordinary young person.
events, dance and cultural festivals. Swathy is a worthy enthusiasm and hard work.
this award. recipient of this award.
Edward Prescott
Wagga Wagga High School
Molly Robinson
Imogen McDonald Jacob Read Jindabyne Central School
Inverell High School Edward Prescott is an exemplar student and genuine Corowa High School Molly Robinson has consistently demonstrated
all-rounder. He has demonstrated extraordinary
Imogen McDonald strives for personal excellence in Throughout his time at Corowa High School, Jacob outstanding achievement in academic, sporting, cultural,
commitment to his responsibilities, representing
her academic and extra-curricular pursuits. This is Read has shown himself to be an outstanding community and leadership endeavours. Her positive and
the school and peers with integrity and dignity. He
demonstrated through her achievements in the NSW ambassador and role model for public education. He vibrant attitude endears her to all members of the school
consistently demonstrates outstanding achievement
Youth Parliament, Country to Canberra Rural Women in has consistently endeavoured to achieve at the highest community which resulted in her being elected a worthy
in all areas of school life. As a senior student, Edward
Politics and her role in the SRC where she represented level in all aspects of his school life. His academic School Captain. Molly’s accomplishments both within the
has shown leadership and maturity beyond his years.
student voice and displayed empathy for student achievements in all courses have been outstanding, school and in the community are evidence of her ability
He has made a significant contribution to the whole
issues. Imogen has demonstrated skills in cooperation and was awarded the Victor Chang School Science and drive to achieve personal goals. Molly has shown
school community, particularly in the creative arts.
to others through her public speaking, performance Award for demonstrating the highest level of maturity beyond her years and has developed personal
WWHS considers Edward Prescott to be an outstanding
in ballet and music. Her integrity, caring nature and student who exhibits outstanding personal qualities of educational achievement, innovation, creativity and strengths that ensures a bright and successful future in
belief in a positive future for all has been demonstrated honesty, integrity and determination and we proudly hard work. Jacob has also found time to promote whatever pathway she chooses. Molly is highly deserving
through her community involvement and fundraising nominate him to receive the Minister’s Award for the values of public education within our community of this award.
efforts. She is an excellent role model for other students Excellence in Student Achievement. through his efforts with local sporting clubs and
and displays a deep understanding of democracy. membership of Federation Youth Council.
Rowan Silcock
Mackenzie Purtill-Wright North Sydney Boys High School
Cassandra McMurdo Wagga Wagga High School
Maddison Reichert Rowan Silcock is a young man with a love of learning
Elderslie High School West Wallsend High School and an exceptional academic achiever in a high
During her time at WWHS, Mackenzie Purtill-Wright
Cassandra McMurdo is an exceptional student who has consistently displayed all values of NSW public Maddison Reichert’s academic achievements have performing school. He is a true all rounder, contributing
has demonstrated her academic talent along with the education. She is an outstanding student who is well been consistently excellent during six years of high to school life through sport, public speaking, debating,
admirable qualities of determination and commitment. respected by students and staff for her honesty and school. She is ranked in the top two of her HSC subjects and music. He is held in high regard by all of those
She is a driven student who manages a complex range responsible approach to all aspects of her school which has led to her inclusion in the regional high around him. His warmth and natural leadership skills
of responsibilities including debating, performing arts life. Mackenzie has shown through her strong sense achievers program. Maddison has always contributed make him a valued member of our school community
and leadership. As a School Captain and Prefect, she of fairness and social justice that she has empathy positively to school culture through her involvement in exemplifying falcon pride, the set of values held dear in
leads by example and has earnt the respect of the for all regardless of their background. Her honesty, leadership, wellbeing and community opportunities. our school. He is a most deserving candidate
student body and the staff alike. She is an outstanding determination and integrity make her a worthy recipient She was a founding member of the student wellbeing and represents what is good about public education.
public speaker and is committed to guiding younger of this award. team which designed a highly successful whole school
students in their skill development. There was no wellbeing week. Maddison is a proud Aboriginal woman
hesitation in recommending Cassandra for this award – and School Captain who has acted as an outstanding
role model to younger peers facilitating diversity
she is the epitome of the very best in public education.
and inclusion.
12 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence Public Education Foundation 13
Minister’s Award
Lachlan Taylor
Elderslie High School
Holly Trikilis
Bossley Park High School
for Excellence in Michelle Collison
Classroom Teacher,
Lachlan Taylor demonstrates academic excellence, Holly Trikilis is a joyful, dedicated and talented student Teaching Thomas Reddall High School
Michelle Collison is an outstanding practitioner who
advocacy for others and extensive commitment to who has consistently achieved outstanding academic
leadership. Lachlan has ranked first for five of his results. Her success has seen her receive the Sydney knows how to unlock the potential within her students.
HSC subjects, results that indicate his determination University Academic excellence award and the Victor She develops strong relationships and solid teaching
and exemplary study habits. He sets clear goals, has Chang School Science Award for Chemistry. Holly Recipient Citations practices which engage, motivate and encourage
an unquestionable work ethic and proactively seeks has a wide field of accomplishments, including being her students to achieve success and take risks with
feedback to improve his performance. Lachlan can be an excellent pianist who has completed all classical their own learning. Michelle develops the whole child;
relied upon to take initiative as School Captain to carry piano grades and is currently working on completing nurturing them in a climate of high expectations
out his responsibilities beyond all expectations. He is an the Associate Diploma of Performance. She is part and allowing them to thrive in the HSC. Her students
outstanding public speaker who engages all members of the Australian Girls Choir and the Australian Youth Zainab Bazzi consistently achieve their best results in her subject.
of the school community. Lachlan is a responsible Orchestra. She is an outstanding leader, a major Head Teacher, Mathematics, In her capacity as Teacher Mentor she has fostered
young man who epitomises the values of public contributor and an excellent mentor in the school’s Merrylands High School and developed the capacity of other teachers in their
education and is an outstanding role model. successful Robotics Program. formative years to grow exemplary educators for our
Zainab Bazzi has been an ornament to our school
school and system.
and to public education since 2015. Zainab is an
exceptional practitioner and educational leader who
selflessly serves young people through applying
Kayla Tiga Amy Wade deep professional knowledge, exemplary practice Rebecca Ferris
Girraween High School Sydney Girls High School and ongoing engagement. She is expert at engaging Head Teacher, Science,
Amy Wade is an exemplary student and outstanding students, employing her remarkable interpersonal Elderslie High School
Kayla Tiga is an outstanding student who has made
leader at Sydney Girls High. Elected as Captain of the skills to build rapport and connection with all students. Rebecca Ferris is an outstanding Head Teacher who
great contributions to the community of Girraween
School, she embodies the attributes of public education Zainab extends her service by expertly dedicating has made an exceptional difference to whole school
High School. She has demonstrated excellence in her
through her willingness to support other students to herself to a range of pursuits including being a Head and faculty practices. She has led STEM innovation
academic studies, community service, co-curricular
reach their potential, as a mentor, and an accomplished Teacher, Year Advisor and PBL Team leader. She through her work on our Project Innovate program,
and leadership endeavours. Kayla's service as School
Captain has been exemplary and of the highest public speaker, able to motivate and encourage the has also led the school’s compliance and induction resulting in the integration of a range of highly engaging
standard. She has initiated and led various programs student body. She is a remarkable role model, engaged programs, the subject selection committee and the resources to teaching and learning. Rebecca has
which have benefited students in all year groups. Kayla in many school programs, being at the top of some attendance team. led this in a cross KLA manner that steps well out of
has actively demonstrated an outstanding ability to endeavours, such as a State Debating Champion her role in the Science faculty. Rebecca has made a
balance her studies at an academically selective high and in others being a valued team member. She is tremendous impact on teaching in the Science faculty
school with a variety of other co-curricular activities committed to serving the school with dignity, integrity and is responsible for the Community Science Fair in
and kindness. Kellie Chapman
both within the school and the wider community. Kayla which partner primary schools work with our students
EALD Support Teacher,
is a most deserving recipient of this award. to showcase scientific understanding.
Turvey Park Public School
Kellie Chapman is an outstanding educator who is
dedicated to supporting new arrivals, refugee students
Elizabeth Waugh and their families to Turvey Park Public School. She Nick Forrester
Aimy Trang Dorrigo High School has established a strong support network for EALD Special Education Teacher,
Hurlstone Agricultural High School Elizabeth Waugh is a dedicated student who has shown teachers and has been active in accessing services, Murwillumbah High School
Aimy Trang is nominated as an outstanding young outstanding leadership as School Captain, at Dorrigo professional learning and links with community Nick Forrester is an outstanding teacher. As the
person possessing a strong sense of social justice High. During these challenging times, she has sought organisations. Kellie's dedication and care for students teacher of the school’s Tutorial Class, Nick specialises
who gives time generously in school and community to provide leadership that was inclusive and actively and community have ensured equity and excellence for in helping students to reflect upon their strengths and
while maintaining excellent academic results. As 2020 tried to help the younger students. She is a very positive all students at Turvey Park Public School. challenges them to rise above their weaknesses. He
School Vice-Captain and 2019 Student Representative role model and is committed to her academic studies
successfully reinspires students who have lost their
Council member she led initiatives to promote improved where she is excelling. Another notable achievement
way with schooling, positively impacting many lives. He
outcomes for her peers. Participating in both Australian is that Elizabeth is currently an Australian Champion
maintains an outstanding rapport with students. Nick
Navy Cadets and school cadets honed Aimy’s in surf lifesaving, in the ski relay. She also supports
has been integral in re-imagining the Tutorial Centre
leadership skills. Volunteering regularly for charities - the community through volunteer work, through surf
and it is now recognised as best practice across the
the Salvation Army, the Cancer Council and the Heart patrols, and helping those impacted by the bush fires
region. Nick uses his skillset to support colleagues
Foundation – Aimy gives selflessly to support others. in our local community.
in our school and others to improve their capacity to
She performs at cultural celebrations in Cabramatta and improve student engagement and behaviour. He is an
Fairfield. Aimy’s participation in sport and academic absolute asset to public education.
pursuits is impressive.
14 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence Public Education Foundation 15
David Gillard Sheree Jones Megan Mitchell Mat Rhodes
Teacher, Agriculture, Head Teacher, Support, Head Teacher, Innovation and Classroom Teacher,
Wagga Wagga High School Dubbo College Delroy Campus Learning, Airds High School Dapto High School
David Gillard has long been at the forefront of Sheree Jones is a highly valued staff member at Dubbo Megan Mitchell is a highly valued teacher of the Mat Rhodes is an outstanding teacher; innovative,
Agriculture education at Wagga Wagga High School College Delroy Campus. As Head Teacher of Support executive team at Airds High School. Her role as Head well organised and clear in his direction. He has
and the surrounding Riverina region. He is a highly she effectively manages eight classes in ensuring that Teacher Innovation and Learning allows her to share her excellent knowledge, ability and expertise in assuming
accomplished, innovative and respected teacher the individual needs of all students are met. Sheree's deep professional knowledge of structuring teaching responsibility for an initiative; exploring, planning,
who has had a profound impact on the students and outstanding manner in which she approaches all programs, using the latest research and collegial advice developing and implementing it in the context of the
teachers he interacts with on a daily basis. Wagga aspects of her position, has earnt her the utmost to get the best learning outcomes for all students, school community and South Coast region in which
Wagga High School considers David Gillard to be an respect of her students, faculty, executive staff and the including our low socio-demographic and ATSI student he teaches. He is committed to the engagement and
exceptional teacher who demonstrates personal wider community. She is organisational and leadership population. She commits to sharing her teaching and growth of his students and to his own professional
qualities of inclusivity, cooperation, high expectations skills were significantly highlighted during the COVID-19 professional learning skills to address the needs of learning. Mat has demonstrated a strong capacity to
and compassion with all members of the school pandemic where she lead the implementation of online our students and to maximise engagement to create lead, instruct and show evidence of improved student
community. learning platforms whilst also catering to the needs of lifelong learners with high learning outcomes. Megan is outcomes through professional knowledge, practice
students without access to technology so that learning an outstanding teacher leader in the classroom. and engagement.
could continue.
Karen Gourlay
Head Teacher, Mathematics, Candice Morris-Grant Craig Roder
The Forest High School
Rhonda Kaidbay Head Teacher, Head Teacher, Mathematics,
Head Teacher, Social Sciences/ James Fallon High School
Karen Gourlay is an outstanding teacher and leader who Murwillumbah High School
LOTE, Ryde Secondary College Craig Roder has been an outstanding teacher and
demonstrates the Australian Professional Standards Candice Morris-Grant is an exceptional teacher who
Rhonda Kaidbay is an exemplary teacher and leader of Mathematics in the Riverina. He has led the
to an exemplary level. Karen is recognised by the holds high expectations for herself and her students.
instructional leader. Her passion for pedagogy way in supporting the Albury alignment of schools,
whole school and professional associations for her Her lessons are student centred and wherever
underpins her work and is evident in the consistently professional associations, developing new syllabuses
expert knowledge and leadership of colleagues. Under possible experiential in nature. Her students hold her
high HSC performance of her faculty. Rhonda has and pedagogies. Craig is a superb mentor for beginning
Karen’s leadership, differentiation of the curriculum in high regard. As a Head Teacher she has influenced
inspired many teachers, particularly through her role on teachers. He has mentored and supported at least
has ensured that students with diverse characteristics pedagogical approaches across the school, embedding 15 early career teachers through their careers as
the Steering Committee of Project Zero, a professional
and backgrounds are challenged and inspired to enjoy practices in her own classroom and sharing learning educators. He supports the whole of James Fallon High
cross-sector network of Sydney educators. She also
and succeed in mathematics. Karen’s passion and with colleagues beyond her own faculty. For that past School through managing the timetable, a responsibility
introduced teachers to visible thinking pedagogy to
dedication to students, staff and the community make few years, Candice has been a key driver of the school's he has held for many years. Craig is a deserving recipient
explicitly develop student metacognition through
her a worthy recipient of this award. classroom teaching at Ryde Secondary College. As focus on collaborative practice to support student of the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.
SEO2 whilst recently seconded, she successfully led growth through learning dispositions.
mentoring programs and LEAPS programs, upskilling
Dion Hobbins ten schools, 12 law firms and parent communities.
Mika Rodic
Music Teacher, Janet Phillips Head Teacher, English (Relieving),
Murwillumbah High School Relieving Assistant Principal, Prairiewood High School
Dion Hobbins is an exceptional Music teacher. Over the Tania Maddison Revesby Public School
Mika Rodic has been a NSW public education leader
past years his HSC Music students have consistently Deputy Principal, Janet Phillips is a dedicated and exceptional for thirty years dedicated to achieving excellence in
achieved mostly band 6 results. Dion inspires his Wagga Wagga High School practitioner who demonstrates strong ethical Secondary School, English Teaching. As a classroom
students to be curious about learning and passionate Tania Maddison has been leading education at Wagga leadership to ensure that all students are provided teacher, she excelled; substantially adding value to her
about Music. He holds high expectations for every Wagga High School and the Riverina region for many with a quality education. Janet’s leadership is based students’ learning outcomes. As Head of Faculty, Mika
student and guides them to find their ‘groove’. Dion is years. She is a highly accomplished, innovative and on building the capacity of all staff through scaffolding has been an accomplished mentor to colleagues within
held in very high regard by his students, parents and respected leader who is a source of inspiration for supports. She strives to seek continual growth and her own faculties and beyond, sharing her expertise and
staff alike. He is an asset to public education. students and staff. She provides a dependable and improvement for all students. exemplary practice to lift the performance outcomes
consistent influence on young people as they make of all students state-wide. Mika further empowers
choices about further education, work and life. colleagues in quality English teaching pedagogy
Wagga Wagga High School considers Tania to be an through her sustained working relationship with NESA,
exceptional leader and educator who demonstrates as a supervisor of marking and mentor.
personal qualities of inclusivity, cooperation, high
expectations and compassion with all members of the
school community.
16 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence Public Education Foundation 17
Secretary’s Award
Lee Bateman
Aaron Routh
Science Teacher,
Jake Tonkin
Head Teacher, Teaching and
for Excellent Service Teacher,
Orange High School Learning, Ryde Secondary College Airds High School
Aaron Routh is a wonderful young, innovative and Jake Tonkin is a highly talented Head Teacher, Teaching Lee Bateman is an outstanding teacher whose dedicated
enthusiastic leader within our school. He holds the and Learning with a passion for leading evidence-based Recipient Citations approach has delivered high quality learning outcomes
position of Assistant Head Teacher, Science and has pedagogy in schools. An outstanding role model, his for students of Airds High School for 30 years. She has
relieved extensively in executive positions for a number lessons reveal high expectations, thoughtful preparation, been instrumental in providing professional knowledge to
of years. Aaron has outstanding relationships with innovation, quality instruction, formative assessment support inclusivity within her classrooms, differentiating
his students and his colleagues and supports early and feedback. His leadership of professional learning in lessons to meet the needs of her students. She
career teachers as a mentor within the school. He programs like Cultures of Thinking, and GAT Education Jade Arnold professionally engages and supports all school events to
consistently achieves strong HSC and VALID results have ensured high levels of differentiation essential Teacher, Librarian, maximise community and student engagement creating
and is an extremely valuable member of a diverse for our partially selective, co-ed, high EALD school. His Galston High School life long learners with high learning outcomes. Lee
Science faculty. Aaron is involved in all aspects of our coordination of programs for the Ryde led Northern models high efficacy in her dedication to improving the
Jade Arnold is an outstanding Teacher, Librarian
school including sport, community initiatives and extra Sydney Entente Cordiale schools, and digital portfolio educational opportunities for Airds students and to this
who has created a lighthouse library at Galston High
curricula science programs. He also leads our after- project for formative assessment for three-way learning end, she is held in high regard for her approachability,
School. Over the past five years Jade has transformed
school homework initiative. conversations with parents, is exceptional. transparency and professionalism.
the library into a vibrant, dynamic environment that
encourages students to engage in life-long learning
and develop a passion for reading. Under Jade's
Nagiha Sahyouni Georgia Valatiadis leadership the Premier's Reading Challenge and the Rachel Byrne
Head Teacher, Visual Arts, Sustained Reading Program have resulted in significant Principal,
Head Teacher, Middle School,
Prairiewood High School improvements in NAPLAN Reading results. Jade's Hunter Sports High School
Doonside Technology High School
contributions to professional organisations through Rachel Byrne has a strong focus on innovation providing
Nagiha Sahyouni has lead colleagues in a collaborative Georgia Valatiadis is an educational leader, whose
webinars, workshops and the formation of a librarian multiple learning pathways to support the specific needs
approach to embed a highly effective program which long-term commitment to public education has been
outstanding! As a classroom practitioner in Visual support group, is testament to her commitment and of target sports students. Rachel has been integral in
engages students and community in the teaching and dedication to cultivating a library experience that is
Arts and Head Teacher CAPA, Prairiewood HS, she is the redevelopment of Hunter Sports High School. With
learning at Doonside Technology High School. She second to none.
unsurpassed! In 2020, PHS was acknowledged as the the construction started in April 2017, she spearheaded
has created a change in both teaching and learning to
most outstanding VA faculty in the 2019 HSC by being the schools’ vision in the design, management and build
enable an approach which integrates inquiry across
awarded the Sir William Dobell Art Foundation Award. through the redevelopment process of Hunter Sports
multiple disciplines. The inclusion of real-world target
audiences involved throughout the learning process
Additionally, Georgia’s impressive, indefatigable work Bradley Bannister High School. Rachel advocates to provide all students at
ethic coupled with her consistently indisputable, Principal, Hunter Sports High School equal opportunities to quality
ensures students are creating meaningful work and
demonstrated ability to achieve teaching excellence, education. As such, the school has developed a strong
designing solutions to authentic problems. Student Delegate Public School
has resulted in her recent appointment as a HSC model of inclusivity for all learners including students
engagement and teacher effectiveness have both Brad Bannister has served his students, parents, staff,
Strategy Advisor, in the TQU. from a low socio-economic background, ATSI students
seen enormous growth because of Nagiha’s expertise, community and the NSW Department of Education and talented athletes.
dedication and determination. with distinction. He has demonstrated outstanding
Katerina Zito leadership, support and advocacy by ensuring every
Relieving Deputy Principal, student, family and staff member is truly known,
Head Teacher, Science, valued and cared for. He has prioritised providing all
Leanne Colley
Conie Sinnott Ryde Secondary College School Administrative Officer,
Special Needs Teacher, students with a high quality learning environment that
Katie Zito demonstrates excellence in instructional is engaging, future focused, inclusive and aspirational.
Ulladulla High School
Murwillumbah High School Leanne Colley has been an outstanding Senior Office
leadership, as leader of an innovative Science faculty, He has removed the barrier of isolation by providing all
Conie Sinnott is an outstanding special educator and and currently, as Deputy Principal. Katie initiates school students with every opportunity to succeed across all Manager, for more than 15 years. Always on the
leader. She is passionate about improving outcomes for improvement using research aligned with CESE’s fields of endeavour. Brad’s leadership during drought, forefront of deployment of administrative platforms
all of her students, often taking innovative, experiential What Works Best. She fosters excellence through bushfire and COVID-19 has been outstanding. Brad is for many years, Leanne is the administrator behind
learning approaches to engage and support them leading high quality professional learning experiences well respected across his local community. the success. Leanne has provided impeccable and
achieve each their learning and social goals. Conie is at Ryde, through our community of schools, the NS outstanding support over many years to the students,
held in high regard by colleagues in our school and in EC, and beyond, with Wagga schools. She has co-led teachers and the community of our school. In response
others. She has been instrumental in leading a culture online digital portfolios for our “three-way learning to the recent South Coast Bushfires and the current
of inclusivity across the school. She is one of the drivers conversations” model. She has co-led a regional COVID-19 pandemic, Leanne has been invaluable
for the T5 special education camp that brings students Differentiation project, developed staff skills in leading in the support of students and families during the
from 5 high schools together to share in learning and Project Based Learning, Literacy and Gifted and recent catastrophic circumstances. Always a highly
friendship. Parents, staff and students hold Conie in the Talented initiatives, and initiated STEM projects with professional, caring and dedicated member of our
highest regard. primary schools, CSIRO and Macquarie University. team, she is highly deserving of this prestigious award.
18 2020 Minister's and Secretary's Awards for Excellence Public Education Foundation 19Gabrielle Curry
Head Teacher, Christopher Haberecht Sharon Jenness
Technology & Applied Sciences, Principal, Head Teacher, Wellbeing,
Ulladulla High School Guildford Public School West Wallsend High School
Gabrielle Curry is a Technology and Applied Studies Christopher Haberecht is an outstanding leader in his As Head Teacher of Wellbeing, Sharon Jenness fosters high
and Hospitality Head Teacher who has transformed school and the wider educational community. He is a expectations of self-efficacy and resilience among students
lives through her dedication to students of the Ulladulla dedicated proponent of Aboriginal education at all levels and encourages them to believe they can succeed and
and Milton Community, as a dedicated member of of the educational community in NSW and Australia. thrive in all aspects of their lives. With 33 years teaching
the Teachers Association along with her inspiring and Christopher proudly blends his Aboriginal perspective experience, she is a fundamental member of the school
dedicated role in leading Vocational Education and and his educational philosophy ensuring his staff and executive and driver of learning support across the wider
Training (VET and the faculty of Technology and Applied students are presented with a differentiated curriculum school community. Sharon's educational philosophy centres
Studies). In particular, Gab ensures students with that caters to all their needs. It is a joy to see Christopher around the cultivation of positive relationships. The range
cognitive and emotional disabilities from the school’s developing the skill set of his team and most importantly of programs and initiatives she has led have impacted many
Support Unit are provided with real world skills that working with his students. Everyone should once in different aspects of school and the wider community. Sharon
enrich their lives. A remarkable, patient and dedicated their lifetime see him reading a story with an Aboriginal has helped to create a proactive and dynamic culture within
professional who builds the hearts and minds of our perspective to one of his classes. and across West Wallsend.
young people.
Stephen Keogh
Cherie Edwards Lyn Harris Head Teacher,
Head Teacher, School Learning and Support Campbelltown Performing Arts
Technology & Applied Sciences, Officer, James Fallon High School High School
Thomas Reddall High School Stephen Keogh is an outstanding practitioner who has
Lyn Harris embodies the principle of every student being
exemplified the values of public education over the past
Cherie Edwards is an outstanding educator who known, valued and cared for. Her support of students
36 years of service to Campbelltown Performing Arts
is driven by her deep commitment to providing in the classroom goes beyond expectations. Lyn has
High School. Across roles he has excelled in all areas and
quality learning experiences for all students. She been passionate about her work as a Student Learning
improved the capacity of staff across the school. Notably,
fosters ingenuity and models this to her staff whilst Support Officer for at least three generations, and Stephen's commitment to equity through his support
encouraging them to take risks with their own continually considers how to improve her practice. She for students with additional and complex needs and his
professional learning and growth. Cherie is a well is an excellent member of the Special Education Faculty capacity to embrace and broker parent and community
respected colleague and is held in high esteem at James Fallon High School, and is a very worthy partnerships has significantly increased student
within the wider school community. She has nurtured recipient of a Secretary's Award for Excellent Service. engagement and learning.
sustainable partnerships that have continued to
provide an array of extra-curricular opportunities and Ric Hutchinson
experiences for our students. Cherie provides strong
School Learning Support Officer Nick Littlewood
leadership and support to her team who, in turn, deliver
& General Assistant, Business Manager,
solid results across many of the HSC TAS subjects.
Red Range Public School Orange High School
Warwick (Ric) Hutchinson is an outstanding employee Nick Littlewood has been employed as our Business
who always goes above and beyond for Red Range Manager for the past two years. During this time, the school
Ben Gerard Public School, the staff and students. He is a dedicated has benefited enormously from his passion and service to
Teacher, team member who strives to support all staff and the school community. Nick works tirelessly supporting
Doonside Technology High School students to achieve the highest possible educational the school in achieving grants to improve teaching and
Ben Gerard is highly respected as he continues to outcomes. Ric ensures that all students at Red Range learning opportunities for students. He leads all aspects of
give freely of his time to students and families in the are known, valued and cared for. He strives to build operational activities outside of teaching and learning and
school community ensuring our young people grow strong community connections with local community has allowed the senior executive team to focus on improving
with self-worth and a belief that personal contributions groups and businesses. Ric is also an active member outcomes for students. Nick is a highly valued member of
can make a better world. Often out of school hours, of the local Red Range community through his the school executive and we would not be able to achieve the
he works to build a sense of belonging and pride for involvement in the NSW RFS Red Range Brigade and successes that we do without his dedication.
at risk young people by raising funds for charity. He the Red Range Sport and Hall Trust.
has steered a wellbeing team who have successfully
created a positive learning culture around the school’s
key strengths – Community, Ownership, Resilience
and Empowerment.
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