Australia’s Best Teachers: Meet some of the great teachers as nominated by you
These are the faces and stories of some of Australia’s best teachers and the heartwarming messages of thanks from their students, principals and parents. SEE THE LIST
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Teachers make immeasurable contributions to our nation each day through their commitment to guiding young people on their life paths.
To show them how valued they are, News Corp put the call out for people to nominate Australia’s Best Teachers, and the responses have been inspiring, heartwarming and have shone a light on hundreds of great teachers.
Below are stories of our country’s most inspirational, innovative and talented educators working to transform education in Australia.
The Australia’s Best Teachers campaign is running across News Corp Australia’s weekend mastheads and digital platforms, in partnership with ANZ, Teachers Mutual Bank, Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools, Care For Kids, Griffith University and PwC.
Teachers deserve the ‘highest training, support and respect’
Elizabeth Vale School principal Julie Murphy runs a trauma-informed school
Jenny Kilkenny, Holy Saviour Primary School, Vermont South VIC
Mrs Kilkenny teaches a Prep/1/2 composite class and seamlessly caters for the large range of learning needs within the class. She is kind and compassionate towards all the students and goes out of her way to give them the best learning experiences possible.
- Nominated by Tanya Rogers
Daniela Harrington, St Francis Catholic College, Melton VIC
Daniela is able to fluidly adapt her lessons to suit the needs and learning styles of all students in her classes. Her enthusiasm and absolute dedication to her subject area (Legal Studies) is evident every day in her teaching. She monitors student engagement regularly and is transparent with her individual learning intentions of all students in her classes. I have never witnessed another teacher adapt and modify the way she delivers information.
- Nominated by Carissa Lock
Tatachilla Lutheran College teachers, McLaren Vale, SA
Seona Anderson: Mrs Anderson keeps parents in the loop with weekly email updates. She prioritises movement in classroom by adding fitness exercises to HASS and English lessons. She brings in food for special occasions and connects with each student individually and supports their interests.
Kathy Best: Kathy is a wonderful practitioner with an amazing passion for physics. Kathy taught me Senior Physics and her love for science shone through in every lesson. Her engaging plans, fun practical activities and wicked sense of humour ensured that students were every bit as enthusiastic about her lessons as she was. Kathy is a large part of the reason I chose to become a teacher, and I am honoured to now work alongside her.
Minka Hackett: Minka is a professional educator whose work is grounded in strong pedagogical practice. She is relational and kind, supporting her Middle and Senior school students to succeed. Minka is a passionate teacher of Humanities, and her engaging and impactful curriculum has created students who are more empathetic and have a better understanding of our world.
Linda Wright: Linda has been an inspiration to both of my children and our family for more than 20 years. From organising Japanese Exchange Student placements and programs, to Outdoor Education learning, development and excursions, to career and vocational advice and guidance, Linda goes above and beyond. Approachable, knowledgeable and with a great sense of humour. My son, daughter and many other students and families have hugely benefited from working and dealing with Linda.
Darren Vile: Darren is a funny, kind and passionate educator, who works so hard for the students in his care. He is professional while also building authentic relationships with his students. As a Maths teacher, he faces a unique challenge in a subject which is so difficult for students; Darren builds confidence, makes learning fun, and delivers lessons about the curriculum and life, seamlessly. He is a fantastic teacher.
Emily Mikulcic: Emily has blazed a trail in personalised learning for our students. She creates custom learning pathways for students with specific learning needs and uses meditation with her students to help them transition from play time to deep learning. She mentors other teachers in these practices and has established an incredible learning culture where students are inspired to drive and own their own learning. She leads with grace and inspires love and respect from her students.
Lindee Hopkins: Lindee has changed the lives of our children who have experienced trauma by introducing powerful methods for enhancing student wellbeing. She is a compelling thought leader in trauma-informed teaching and by applying Zones of Regulation she has greatly improved the ability of all her students to develop self-knowledge and practice self-control in the learning environment. Our most complex children are now thriving emotionally and academically and achieving goals that were previously unattainable.
Alison Thacker: Ali is a phenomenal leader in contemporary teaching practices and continually brings fresh knowledge about the teaching profession to our college to ensure that our students benefit from the most contemporary and powerful teaching ideas and tools. She is focused on each individual learner, working out-of-hours to ensure that the voices of our students are heard in the delivery of curriculum and to resolve the personal and systemic barriers that hold students back.
Scott Wendelborn: Scott is a standout educator who empowers his students to have control over both their actions and their learning, enabling them to be active participants in their own education and not just passive recipients of information. As a result, Scott’s students are independent and autonomous thinkers and problem-solvers who are unafraid to take educated risks, ask questions and explore new situations. Scott has also helped his students to grow as fair-minded and supportive collaborators.
Richard Rowe: Richard is a champion of literacy in a world of declining language skills. His passionate and creative approach to English teaching has given rise to a new generation of powerful writers, readers and analysts. He has helped our students to become dynamic communicators and equipped them with the ability to express themselves effectively through the written word. Under his guidance, our students have demonstrated significant advancements in literacy, critical thinking and academic success.
Fiona Gore: Fiona is a fast-paced, energetic and passionate physical education teacher who successfully manages fantastic relationships with more than 400 children from Reception to Year 6. She never fails to celebrate student success and always encourages students to strive for excellence according to their individual ability and skill. As a result of her commitment, leadership and attention to detail, our Junior School Sports Day is one of the most attended days in the College calendar.
Helen Dorling: Helen is an early adopter of new innovations in teaching and as a result her classroom is a highly creative and stimulating place for our youngest students to learn and grow. She prioritises openness, safety and predictability and this gives our junior school students the confidence and freedom to explore and flourish. Helen’s beautiful rapport with students and her unfailing dedication make her a cherished and essential part of our school community.
Trent Heaft: Trent has inspired many students at our college to pursue careers in the digital media industry and these students credit Trent with their professional success. Trent is an out-of-the-box thinker and his adventurous spirit encourages students to take positive risks and give them the confidence to explore their own creative ideas. He provides an exceptionally supportive learning environment and always provides mentorship and additional help and guidance to any student who needs it.
- Nominated by Stuart Packer, Crystal Thiel, KeziaThiel, Jordan Allen, Heather Oliver and JaneClayton
Brittany Hancock, Brisbane State High School, South Brisbane QLD
Brittany is an exceptional educator who goes above and beyond to ensure her students reach their potential. She develops strong relationships with her students and supports students’ academic needs and social emotional well-being. Her actions demonstrate a total commitment to supporting the success of every student. She is every student’s champion and an incredible role model for the teachers she works alongside. The positive influence she has had on my child will be lifelong.
- Nominated by Sheree Carr
Ben Higgins, St Francis Xavier Box Hill, VIC
Ben has a hugely positive impact on every student he works with. He is committed to bringing out the best wellbeing and learning outcomes for every student and tailors the learning opportunities for his students accordingly. Ben is a positive role model for his students as he approaches his work with gentleness, humour and a sense of fun, always striving to engage them in deep learning.
- Nominated by Mary Jones
St Mary’s Star of the Sea teachers, Hurstville, NSW
Kellie Heaney Mrs Heaney makes going to school fun and her positive attitude inspires her students to want to learn. She understands the individual needs of each child which is another reason why she is a great teacher.
- Nominted by Anastasia Michailou
Kate Jones Most caring and calming teacher who really cares about all students and was the perfect teacher for my anxious son when he started kindergarten.
- Nominated by Nicole Decelis
Daniel Rodger Mr Rodger, is an exceptional teacher, he has taught my son and by chance my daughter has him again this year. When he taught my son he gave him confidence as he is a more reserved child and he treats my daughter with respect and fairness. He is well versed with the curriculum and ensures parents are kept updated. He remembers everything, all my sons interest and that is four years later.
- Nominated by Helen Taiaroa
Rebecca Besly Rebecca Besly is my son’s school principal. I nominate her because she works tirelessly at school and from home, especially during the lockdown and post lockdown. She was very pro-active with keeping the parents and students up-to-date with Government rules and protocols, as well as a great listener to every parents’ concerns. During the lockdown, she promptly replied to parents’ emails, making sure that students were comfortably learning from home. We are so blessed.
-Nominated by Yulia Santoso
Charmaine Lauhban Worked with my child to build confidence with reading and writing, she was engaging and went out of her way to call and check in during Covid home learning. She always goes out of her way to communicate with parents and keep them informed with growth of children’s learning. Such a beautiful teacher and person. The children love her.
- Nominated by Belinda Jorge
Jacob Blundell Mr Blundell encourages everyone to overcome their limitations by using his friendship to his students and he has done so well in raising the bar higher for my son. We need more teachers like Mr. Blundell as educators.
-Nominated by Leilani Widya
Caitlin Ferguson, Campbell Street Primary School, Hobart, TAS
Caitlin goes above and beyond with her very diverse Kindergarten class to know each child, their family and their individual needs. She embraces inclusivity, individuality and child centred learning. Her students thrive under her care and their families value the connectivity between home and school. Caitlin relishes personal learning opportunities and enacts her learning to continually improve her teaching practice. Caitlin is a role model for students and staff alike. Her future is bright!
- Nominated by Susan Jeffery
Chloe Barratt, Highland Reserve State School, Upper Coomera QLD
Miss Barratt has made an incredible impact on our daughter through her genuine and caring teaching methods. My shy and nervous 5-year-old, who wasn’t too sure about starting school, now has a love of learning, thrives in class and is excited to go each day. The important role Miss Barratt played in ensuring a positive start to our educational journey will never be forgotten, nor underestimated by us. Thankyou Miss Barratt!
- Nominated by Lynsey Clarke
Andy Liebelt, Cornerstone College, Mount Barker, SA
“He has been teaching at this school for many years and makes sure that all new students are taught in a friendly environment where all abilities are catered for. Has taught
parents of current students and obviously loves the job.
- Nominated by Nick Dannenberg
Clare Nolan, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Darwin NT
Clare is a passionate, caring and committed teacher to students, staff and wider school community. Clare consistently goes out of her way to help others, and ensures all students achieve success and feel safe and valued in the school.
- Nominated by Molly Kalchbauer
Shaam Nudall, Bellbridge Primary School, Hoppers Crossing, VIC
Mr Shaam concentrates his teaching around a child’s wellbeing and makes sure each child is heard and boosts their self esteem. He never lost enthusiasm throughout Covid and encouraged children to have their own thoughts and personalities. He taught my children to look out for others and the importance of kindness. He will forever be remembered and I as a parent will be forever greatful for supporting my children.
- Nominated by Mila and Isla Bradley
Alexandra Giameos, Canterbury Boys High School, NSW
As a careers adviser Alexandra shows great skill and passion at identifying where the boys’ talents are heading at an early stage. Her commitment to providing opportunities to their goal is unquestionable.
- Nominated by Michael Giameos
Saffron Armand, Haileybury Rendall School, Darwin, NT
A wonderful transition teacher - caring, sensitive, hands-on and goes above and beyond to help kids!
- Nominated by Nisita Velagapudi
Julie Murphy, Principal at Elizabeth Vale Primary School, SA
Site Managing the building upgrades within Elizabeth Vale Primary School, I have seen first hand how much time, effort, love and care Julie Murphy puts into the school. The students are her number one priority and within a challenging dynamic, she makes it seem easy when it would be anything but. I, as a parent would be over the moon to have a principal like her at my child’s school. No one deserves it more.
- Nominated by Callum Jayne
She’s awesome
- Nominated by NicoleMaiden
Kelli Coccetti, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Darwin, NT
Kelli is an amazing teacher who develops exceptional relationships with her students. The classroom has a happy and calm learning vibe where the students love coming to school each day. Kelli has developed teaching and learning pedagogy in her classroom which enables each student to achieve their learning goals in a safe and supported learning environment.
- Nominated by Rosie Harrison
Annie Tudor-Lynch, Toowoomba Anglican School, QLD
Annie did an amazing job teaching my son at kindy 10 years ago and set up an amazing facility. She has now moved to Tasmania and has set up a bush kindy there. What a wonderful experience for young children in kindergarten and an asset she is to their whole lives and education.
- Nominated by Anni Cramb
Tammy Hawkins, St Philip’s College, Alice Springs, NT
Tammy spends long hours as not only as Director of Wellbeing. But also a dedicated Chemistry Teacher. Nearly every Sunday is dedicated to spending time with her Chemistry Cohort. She is also a boarding mother to her 50 challenging Boarding students who come from remote communities throughout WA NT and SA. Tammy accepts the challenges for all her students who are nearly all from somewhere else. Gold medal standard and caring.
- Nominated by Paul Bailey
Nicky Theuerkauf, Kawungan State School, Hervey Bay QLD
Nicky teaches the Early Childhood Development Program, an early intervention program for children 3-5 years with special needs who require an intensive, multidisciplinary program to develop skills and behaviours to maximise their potential. Nicky goes above and beyond supporting children’s early learning and helps develop the valuable skills children need to be successful learners. Nicky is often faced with many challenging behaviours, but every day greets her students and families with a friendly, welcoming smile.
- Nominated by the ECDP Families
Belinda McClure, Caritas College School Port Augusta, SA
Goes above and beyond and determined that every child will have an enriching learning experience regardless of abilities. Spends hours making learning aids, like collecting shells for students to use for beading into hermit crabs which helps explain how each class member is unique like their shells. And she has made a class market where students earn money through strong choices through the week and then they go “shopping”. She is love and joy.
- Nominated by Hayley Thiele
Marian Bell, St Aidan’s Primary Rooty Hill, NSW
Mrs Bell, the principal, sets a very good example when it comes to engaging kids in fun activities, she is the first one to show the way and she is the first person you will meet every day at the gate. She greets and welcomes students and parents, I bet you won’t find any principal doing that. My kids love going to school.
- Nominated by Swaran Singh
Sharnii Daley, West End State School, QLD
If ever there was a teacher that went above and beyond, Sharnii would be a shining example. Sharnii works tirelessly to cater for all different student needs and is willing to think out of the box to create the necessary solutions to aid transitions and pathways. She has supported both my highly gifted and my 2e kids, tailoring holistic plans to ensure their academic, emotional and social success. She is an absolutely amazing, caring teacher.
- Nominated by Rita Truong
Madia Schatz, Sattler Christian College, Bees Creek, NT
Madia goes above and beyond to design English curriculum which is stimulating and engaging for her reluctant learners. She cares for more than just a child’s academic success but takes care to develop the whole child.
- Nominated by Linda Broad
Simon Dawson, Marryatville Primary School, Kensington SA
Simon is 77 years of age and still enthusiastically teaching as a relief teacher. He started his teaching career as a one man teacher at Nackara, rising to be principal of Flinders View Primary at Port Augusta. A very good artist, Simon awarded paintings as a reward to students who achieved well. He did magic shows here and interstate for entire schools. Wonderful teacher who loves kids. They love him and we need more like him.
- Nominated by Bronte Trotter
Madonna Belbin, Bloomsbury State School, QLD
Madonna is there for every child and family. She is fun and goes above and beyond to support schooling holistically.
- Nominated by Eliza Durnsford
Karyn Lively, Highland Reserve State School, Upper Coomera, QLD
Karyn speaks to her senior students as a valued person. They have a voice, a purpose and find a new love for school. She helps them to participate at their level in curriculum and demonstrates how to respect others and holds her students to the same expectation. She allows all her students to have a voice and will listen to that voice in all situations.
– Nominator name withheld
Julie Pike , Cairns West State School, QLD
Miss Pike is the most caring, loving, supportive teacher I have ever come across in my 38 years. She goes above and beyond with students and parents.
- Nominated by Julie Harrison
Angela Hoppe, Mooloolaba State School, QLD
So passionate and committed to the kids, she creates exciting new ways to teach them and keep them excited about learning. She is young, strong and kind to everyone.
- Nominated by Natasha Workum
Andrew Krisenthal, Cambdridge Park High School, NSW
Our son is autistic and struggles significantly with social and emotional regulation. Since starting high school Mr Krisenthal has been nothing but supportive of his needs and works with us on a daily basis. For the first time in years we feel like our son is being given an opportunity to learn and grow.
- Nominated by Natalie J
Andrew Ford, Maclean High School, NSW
Andrew’s dedication clearly shows as the rapport he has with the whole school beams. He strives to ensure everyone has access to education. And has the patience of a saint.
- Nominated by Jack Black
Sol Di Maggio, Emmanuel College Notre Dame, Point Cook VIC
Sol Di Maggio is THE biggest slay ever to walk this earth. He is so sweet and kind and I have learnt more from him in one year than I have from all my other teachers combined. He’s so real. He’s genuinely the best teacher ever.
- Nominated by student
Tara Martin, St Pius X Catholic Primary School, Salisbury QLD
Tara has a passion for every child that she works with. Taking additional time to put strategies in place to meet their individual needs so they grow and improve. Tara cares deeply and is extremely supportive of children from families facing family issues and hardship. Tara is a former assistant principal and continues to support and mentor other teachers with a particular focus on graduates to ensure they settle into their vocation.
- Nominated by Michael Martin
Christopher O’Neill, Principal at Gapuwiyak School, Arnhem Land, NT
Former Melburnian Christopher O’Neill has spent the past 12 years working in the Northern Territory, specifically with schools in the historic region of Arnhem Land and said: “I never thought I would be so invested in this work. I’ll admit I was pretty clueless when I got here and it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the work we have to do, but I have grown to love it here.” As the school principal at the Gapuwiyak School, Mr O’Neill said community and cultural involvement is paramount in this area, as is embracing a “fluid” style of education.
– Nominator name withheld
Terry Adair, Darling Heights State School, Toowoomba QLD
Terry has been an absolute inspiration to me as a beginning teacher. Every question I have, he can answer in a calm and positive manner. One of the most inspirational things about Terry is that he doesn’t want to be in an admin role, because he loves classroom teaching too much to move into admin.
- Nominated by Tim Adair
Michelle Sproule, Soldiers Point Public School, NSW
“She is inspirational and kind. Our whole class would agree that she is the best teacher in Australia. Mrs Sproule gives everyone a chance, she listens to everyone’s ideas and doesn’t leave anyone out. She is an amazing teacher and deserves to be recognised as one of Australia’s greatest teachers. Even if she doesn’t win she will still be the greatest teacher.”
– Nominated by Sebastian Reid and Eli Hart
Christopher O’Neill, Principal at Gapuwiyak School, Arnhem Land, NT
Former Melburnian Christopher O’Neill has spent the past 12 years working in the Northern Territory, specifically with schools in the historic region of Arnhem Land and said: “I never thought I would be so invested in this work. I’ll admit I was pretty clueless when I got here and it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the work we have to do, but I have grown to love it here.” As the school principal at the Gapuwiyak School, Mr O’Neill said community and cultural involvement is paramount in this area, as is embracing a “fluid” style of education.
– Nominated by anonymous
Kasey Paterson, Sparrow Early Learning, Tewantin, QLD
“Kasey Paterson is an incredibly authentic, driven, and well-respected individual who truly cares about her staff and families alike.”
“She is amazing – Kasey is so supporting and always accommodating to the many needs asked from our staffing and families.”
– Nominated by colleague and parent
Caitlin Van Der Pluym, Knox Gardens Primary School, VIC
“Mrs Van Der Pluym is an inspiring teacher because she helped new students when they were scared. She helped other students when they needed help. She spreads smiles across the school. You can ask her for any help you need and she will help. She impacts our school with a wonderful teaching method because if you don’t learn very well with one method she will keep on trying to help in many different ways.”
– Nominated by Charlotte Warrington
Afroza Sultana, IQRA College, O’Halloran Hill, SA
“Afroza showed leadership skills and was appointed as the co-ordinator of high school since 2022. During this time, she managed to develop a whole school approach with her colleagues to shift the culture into learning culture between the students, and she helped the teachers to implement the plan.”
– Nominated by Hani Abul Khair
READ MORE ABOUT AUSTRALIA’S BEST TEACHERS SERIES HERE
Olivia Black, Undurba State School, Murrumba Downs, QLD
“Every time someone got suspended she always let them have a new start and helped us to be the best global citizen we can be.”
– Nominated by Leila Thomas-Bryan
Fiona Davies, Braemar College, Woodend, VIC
“Mrs Davies has helped me through the toughest of times, told me to reach for the stars and to never ever give up. I didn’t enjoy English until she was my teacher. She is amazing and when I grow up I want to be exactly like her she is the best, kindest, happiest, strongest and the most inspirational teacher in the world!!!”
– Nominated by student
Corey Micari, Trinity Lutheran College, Ashmore QLD
Mr Micari is a funny, kind and helpful teacher. He makes lots of funny jokes. Also he teaches a lot of different grades. He is hard working to make everything fun. He is super caring to our community. He is very patient with everyone and dose not rush. He is a really trustworthy member of the community. We can always count on him.
– Nominated by his students
Samantha Brimfield, Santa Sophia Catholic College, Box Hill, NSW
“Sam creates a welcoming learning environment for both students and staff. Students feel safe to express their feelings and she has great listening skills and takes time out of her busy day to make sure her students are heard and feel appreciated and that they know that they belong. She sets rules and expectations that students understand and follow. She is amazing!”
– Nominated by Dianne Sabat
Matthew Panayiotopoulos, St Euphemia College School Bankstown, NSW
“Matthew launched the Change makers Project-To build a Library for a school in Lismore and India. The school partnered with Upschool to raise $10,000 to convert a shipping container into a library for Gyan Ganga School in Sambhal, India. As part of this initiative, the funds raised will go towards paying for a team in Bangalore to design and convert the container into a library, before delivering it directly to the Indian School.”
– Nominated by Theony Nikas
Natalie Rayner, Queensland Pathways State College, Mt Gravatt, QLD
“Natalie displays unconditional positive regard for all of her students, meaning she shows empathy, support and acceptance for students, no matter what behaviours they may display.”
“Natalie would make her students a priority. She always tried to form a close but still professional bond with us and that is what made Nat such an inspiration. She made us feel comfortable to talk to her about any issues that may be affecting our ability to succeed in our school work.”
– Nominated by colleague and student
Erica Sherlock, Cranbourne Secondary College, VIC
“Works tirelessly in the humanities space to incorporate activities that will engage students in their learning. Successfully integrates First People’s perspectives in the curriculum. Puts in endless hours to support other teachers to develop their teaching craft. Always puts the students first in all decisions she makes during her planning, teaching and practice.”
– Nominated by Rick Taig
Jodieann Cocks, St Columba, Andrews Farm, SA
“Jodieann has taught at St Columba College for over 20 years. She is a dedicated and caring teacher, who has held roles across Junior Primary and Secondary School. Her commitment to the children in her care is a credit to the person that she is.”
– Nominated by Michael O’Dwyer
Peter Vincent, Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School, Hoxton Park, NSW
“Mr Vincent has helped all of Year 5. He is such an inspiration to not just me but all of Good Shepherd, as he is kind, thoughtful but most of all he taught us. Not just in any old fashioned way, but in fun ways he is very captivating and hilarious. Please make him Australia’s best teacher.”
– Nominated by Toriice Younan
Vince Tavernese, St Leo’s Catholic College, Wahroonga, NSW
Along with his music department colleague Fiona Milkins, Mr Tavernese’s input and support helped turn my son from someone who was disinterested and disengaged at school to someone who is involved, confident and has purpose. They did this by focusing on building his musical contribution to the school – and that has spilt through into other areas of schooling. Thank you!
– Nominated by Justin Lees
Courtney Hardy, Andrews Creek Primary School, Wesley Vale, TAS
“I think Mrs Hardy is the best teacher because she makes learning fun. Some people are negative about the work we do, but when Mrs Hardy explains she makes it fun. Mrs Hardy is the best teacher ever, sometimes we do art with her and it’s really fun. Mrs Hardy even helps us to make are books look amazing. Mrs Hardy is the best!”
– Nominated by Sophia Stansbie
Phillip Wallace, Andrews Creek Primary School, Wesley Vale, TAS
“I’m Nominating Mr Wallace because firstly he’s an AMAZING teacher. Mr Wallace makes learning fun by telling jokes and pushing people in a friendly way to be their best. When I came to Mr Wallace in grade 5 I was scared and never had been encouraged to do the best I can do. Mr Wallace introduced to me a new way to learn. And it worked. I’ve improved, and now I come to school much happier than before. Mr Wallace is the best teacher there is!”
– Nominated by Amelia Stansbie
Jodieann Cocks, St Columba College School, Andrews Farm, SA
”Jodieann has taught at St Columba College for over 20 years. She is a dedicated and caring teacher, who has held roles across Junior Primary and Secondary School. Her commitment to the children in her care is a credit to the person that she is. Jodieann is loved by her students, their families, and her colleagues.”
– Nominated by Michael O’Dwyer
Danielle Thummler Fox, Cabarita Mortlake Kindergarten, NSW
Danielle is one of a kind. She always gives 110 per cent, she has the most amazing sense of humour, is able to relate to children in a way that most can only aspire to. We appreciate her efforts and her massive heart.
– Nominated by Amanda Symond
Rhiannen John, Korumburra Secondary College, Warragul, VIC
“Continually pushing higher results for students in every grade including VCE higher achievements every year and transition to work. Takes country kids surfing, snowboarding and gets sponsors to give free passes for activities to praise students good work and stores to donate goods to support this school with students from families of lower than average income. Went beyond in Covid in lockdown to ensure all students had ability to achieve work in technologies.”
– Nominated by Margaret Skelley
Tara Martin, St Pius X Catholic Primary School, Salisbury, QLD
Tara has a passion for every child that she works with. Taking additional time to put strategies in place to meet their individual needs so they grow and improve. Tara cares deeply and is extremely supportive of children from families facing family issues and hardship. Tara is a former assistant principal and continues to support and mentor other teachers with a particular focus on graduates to ensure they settle into their vocation.
– Nominator name withheld
Anna Ludwig, Beenleigh State High School, QLD
“Anna has driven a whole school approach to the relevance of 21st century skills; delivering a way for students to tailor their education to their chosen careers, focus on the necessary employability skills, and highlight their level of attainment to prospective employers via a digital platform. Through the Micro Credentialing Program, the percentage of students not engaged in education, training, or employment after graduation shifted from 42.5 per cent in 2020 to 20.4 per cent in 2022.”
– Nominated by Donna Harvey
David Walliams, Coolum State High School, QLD
“David is the whole package as an educator, always first to give a hand to benefit students. Involved in extra curriculum activities (kokoda challenge, STEM club, after school tutoring), always the first to do extra work. Finally, he is just a great educator and person, a giver.
– Nominated by Paul Olsenpolse
Bevan Baker, Churchill State School, Churchill, QLD
“Bevan has taught two of my daughters and did an amazing job. Always communicated what was happening for the term and supported individual needs.”
– Nominated by Zena Scully
Claudia Stow, Emmaus College, Vermont South, VIC
“We are blessed to have innovative and outstanding teachers such as Claudia within our community of schools to bring this vision to life for our students and families.”
- Acting Executive Director of Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools Dr Edward Simons
Michael Henderson, Coomera Anglican College, Upper Coomera QLD
In Year 3, I was too afraid of ‘getting into trouble’ to show what I was capable of. Mr H taught me the curriculum, to love myself, to tap into my superpowers, be brave and when to breathe. I am now Primary School Captain and a Queensland Cricketer because I continued along the path to excellence we walked. I lead from a place of kindness, inclusivity and confidence, paying forward the lessons he taught me.
– Nominated by Lucy Logan
Sarah Mechen, Churchill State School, QLD
“Sarah is the most caring teacher I have ever met. She really cares for each student. Sarah listens to each one of students and always has time for them even though she has a huge workload.”
– Nominated by Zena Scully
Jennifer Ness-Ferry, St Francis De Sales College, Mount Barker, SA
Mrs Ness-Ferry is all about relational connection and making her students feel safe at school. She ‘sees’ all her students and their needs. She strives to get the best out of them. Mrs Ness-Ferry is the teacher that students will remember when they’re adults, as the positive impact that she has on their lives is incredible and one of a kind. The world needs more trauma informed and ASD aware teachers like her.
– Nominated by Beck Bolton
Jessica Burns, Casey Grammar School, Cranbourne East, VIC
“Ms Burns is a dedicated/extraordinary teacher, who went over the call of duty managing my son’s chronic anxiety and ADHD. She didn’t shy away from the challenge, rather she was encouraged by it. She adapted his learning program, created special zones/activities, involved and taught the kids anxiety supports, arranged specialist care, and rang/emailed every day to celebrate each little win, and now he looks forward to school. I cannot think of a more worthy recipient.”
– Nominated by Melanie McVey-Di Lazzaro
Julia Dale, St Margaret’s Primary School Maribyrnong, VIC
Julia is acutely aware of her students’ needs and develops her teaching practice accordingly. I am yet to see her get angry or frustrated with a child and she treats all her students with the utmost respect and dignity. She has had some challenging behaviours to deal with and she deals with each individual with such compassion. Julia is such a calm and caring teacher who guides her students to strive to reach their goals.
– Nominated by Gavin Brennan
The following teachers from Monterey Secondary College, Frankston North, VIC, were all nominated by Tom Cain:
Taylor Bates: “Taylor Bates, an English teacher, has improved student engagement with her trauma-informed approach. This has led to a 77 per cent positive endorsement of Effective Classroom Behaviour, 40 per cent higher than the state average. Her focus on social and emotional learning has made a profound impact on students’ lives.”
Mikhaela Shafran: ”Mikhaela Shafran, leader of Monterey Secondary College’s Classroom Connect, has made a positive impact on students and the education community. Despite working in one of Victoria’s most disadvantaged areas, Mikhaela has provided life-altering education opportunities to young people facing significant challenges. Mikhaela has improved outcomes for at-risk students and provided pathways to success. Her commitment and passion make her a true asset to Monterey Secondary College.”
Pedro Mello: “Pedro Mello has led Monterey Secondary College’s senior school programs with distinction, resulting in a 30 per cent increase in VET program completion rates in his first year. He has provided students with industry-specific knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for employment and further education. His unwavering commitment to student success has made him a true asset to the education community, providing students with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.”
Madison Smith: “Madison Smith, a maths and science teacher and Curriculum Leader, has improved student results and learning experiences through enhanced curriculum and assessment. Despite challenges associated with significant student disadvantage, Madison strives to provide students with tools to succeed. Her commitment to excellence and passion for teaching have made her a valuable asset to the education community, inspiring colleagues and students. Madison’s impact on student results is a testament to her dedication and expertise.”
Rob Oakley: “Rob Oakley transformed Monterey Secondary’s music program into an immersive learning experience, boosting student engagement and results. By incorporating design tech and arts, Rob created a cross-curricular program that captivates students facing intergenerational disadvantage. The result? Increased involvement in school bands and performances both in-school and in the community.”
Cindy McClennan: “Under Cindy McLennan’s leadership, the Accelerated Learning Programs at Monterey Secondary College have helped students impacted by Covid-related learning loss. With bespoke literacy and numeracy programs, she has improved English and Math results and provided disadvantaged students with academic success. Cindy’s commitment to closing the achievement gap has had a lasting impact on students and the community.”
Martine Higgins: “Martine Higgins leads Monterey Secondary College’s student voice and agency programs, resulting in increased student engagement and empowerment in a disadvantaged community. Martine’s focus on student agency and ownership has created life-altering education opportunities and successful pathways.”
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Originally published as Australia’s Best Teachers: Meet some of the great teachers as nominated by you
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