Widgee teacher Robert Andrews voted best teacher 2023

The youngest students at Widgee State School are too cute and super enthusiastic as they tell us why they reckon their teacher is the best of all the teachers. Watch the video:

With more than 150 responses for nominations on the Gympie Times Facebook page, it is clear the region is home to many talented teachers who inspire their students every day.

But only one can be the winner, and Robert Andrews, the Prep and Year 1 teacher from Widgee State School has taken first place with 23 per cent of votes in our 2023 poll.

“It’s not about the data, it’s about the social and emotional growth, and teaching them respect,” Mr Andrews said when we caught up with him at Widgee this week.

Robert Andrews teaches Prep and Year 1 at Widgee State School and has been voted Gympie's best teacher in 2023. Picture: Christine Schindler

Mr Andrews started out as a football coach and managing a property in western Queensland, but when a horse accident injured his knee he had to rethink his career.

In his time as a coach he was disappointed with how footy culture was influencing young boys and so became driven to make a difference in young boys’ lives.

He found an outlet for his passion when he became a teacher aide almost 35 years ago.

“If I can make a difference in one kid’s life then I’m happy,” he said.

Mr Robert Andrews teaches prep and grade one at Widgee State School and won Gympie's best teacher in 2023. Picture: Christine Schindler

His passion, affection and teaching style reflects in his students, and he said taking them outside and getting them to learn with their hands really gets the best results.

“He makes learning fun,” his students said when asked why he was the best teacher.

From Prep to Year 12 graduation, teachers extend their influence beyond the classroom.

Gympie‘s educators act as mentors, friends and guiding lights, shaping young minds, fostering knowledge, and inspire the dreams and aspirations to lead them into tomorrow.

Congratulations to all the teachers nominated, and special congratulations to Mr Andrews.

Robert Andrews teaches prep and grade one at Widgee State School and won Gympie's best teacher in 2023. Picture: Christine Schindler