Meet the best state secondary educators on the Gold Coast
The city’s best state secondary teachers and school staff have been revealed at one of the biggest celebrations of education excellence. Meet the city’s top four
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The city’s best state secondary teachers and school staff have been revealed at one of the biggest celebrations of education excellence.
More than 550 people attended the prestigious Gold Coast State Secondary Education Ball where more than 50 educators from across the Gold Coast were celebrated for their outstanding achievements.
On Saturday the award winners across four categories were announced.
Excellence in Secondary Teaching Award winner
Allana Landolfo, physical education teacher at Coombabah State High School
Prize: Full enrolment into a Griffith University post graduate education program
What does winning this award mean to you?
I am really honoured that my time and passion organising whole-school events to raise wellbeing and school culture has been recognised. There are many teachers doing amazing things in schools and for me, this award encourages me to continue working on making positive impacts in my school.
What are you hoping to gain through the sponsored opportunity?
It has provided me with a professional development opportunity to learn, grow and challenge myself as a teacher and leader.
Excellence in Secondary Education Leadership Award winner
Simon Lydiard, head of engagement and student success for Years 7 and 8 at Pacific Pines State High School
Prize: $5000 credit to undertake a Bond University professional development course
What does winning this award mean to you?
I am very grateful to be able to do the work that I do, and even more fortunate to have a fantastic team around me at Pacific Pines State High School. Teaching is a tough job, but it is also incredibly rewarding. It is a privilege to be in a position to lead and influence others, and I am proud to support our school community.
What are you hoping to gain through the sponsored opportunity?
As a teacher and leader, it is imperative to also model and embrace the mindset of a lifelong learner. The sponsored prize allows me to access and participate in learning that I can then share with others – the value will be hard to measure as I can pass the skills and lessons along.
Excellence in Educational Support Award winner
Melody Callahan, marketing and events officer at Benowa State High School
Prize: $5000 credit to undertake a TAFE Queensland professional development course
What does winning this award mean to you?
Not only is it a fabulous thing to be appreciated and nominated by my colleagues but to win was absolutely mind blowing. Being acknowledged for the work being done (such as marketing, social media and branding) after being asked ‘what do you do anyway’ many times over the years is such an amazing feeling. Our role is so important for maintaining communication with families, students and the wider community; for ensuring our students and staff are recognised on a wider scale for the amazing things they do; for the countless hours we spend making sure things are seamless during events. This is the big win – as we love what we do. And for it to be acknowledged as important and necessary is fantastic.
What are you hoping to gain through the sponsored opportunity?
I’d like to expand on my skills so that I can continue to offer great support to the school as technology continues to change at such a rapid pace.
Excellence in Innovation Award winner
Team leader Sonia Livingstone on behalf of the Authentic Connections Orientation Week team at Varsity College
Prize: tailored professional development workshop by Southern Cross University’s Teach Lab team
What does winning this award mean to you?
Winning this award on behalf of Varsity College, as the team leader, is a significant validation of our innovative approach and our willingness to embrace new methodologies. It demonstrates that thinking outside the box and taking bold steps can lead to both recognition and positive student outcomes. In an ever-evolving educational landscape, it is crucial to engage young people and foster their sense of belonging. This award highlights the importance of continually seeking and implementing new strategies to achieve these goals.
What are you hoping to gain through the sponsored opportunity?
I am eager to enhance my knowledge through research on effective strategies for engaging Secondary Middle School students in learning. This age group is frequently the most disengaged, which can have long-term implications for their future success. Additionally, I am committed to sharing my insights and learnings with the wider school community to foster a more engaging and supportive educational environment for all students.
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