Voting opens to find FNQ’s best prep teacher

Far North Queensland’s most dedicated prep teachers have been nominated by grateful parents across the region. See the 60+ shortlist and vote for your favourite.

Who will be voted FNQ’s favourite prep teacher, Picture: Getty Images,

Kind. Generous. Loving. Dedicated. Supportive.

These are the words used to describe prep teachers across Far North Queensland.

When the Cairns Post put out the call to find the region’s favourite prep teacher, we were inundated with nominations from grateful parents.

Trinity Anglican School, Kewarra Beach prep teacher Mandy Lade was nominated by a number of Northern Beaches parents, with one parent likening her to a Roald Dahl character.

“Mrs Lade is, without a doubt, the best prep teacher your child could possibly have. Mrs Lade is ‘Miss Honey’ from Roald Dahl’s ‘Matilda’ personified: sweet, calm, funny, softly spoken,” the parent said.

Trinity Anglican School Kewarra Beach prep students Mackenzie Barbero, Frankie Hammond and Henrik Rudnik, all 5, pick up metallic items with magnets as part of a fun science project in the class. Picture: Brendan Radke

“Mrs Lade can discipline disruptive behaviour in her classroom, with just a look no raising of her voice required. The children absolutely adore her and Mrs Lade can remember every single child she has nurtured and taught.”

Another parent described her as the most wonderful person to guide little ones in their school journey.

Melissa Pavey from St Gerard Majella was another frequently-nominated teacher.

One parent described her as one of the most beloved teachers in the Far North.

My First Year 2024 St Gerard Majella School Prep A students. Picture: Supplied

“Hands down the most favourite prep teacher in the entire FNQ. Mandy is renowned for her gentleness, compassion, kindness and above all her integrity towards her teaching. My children have flourished under her wings,” the parent wrote.

Michelle Mead from Dimbulah State School also proved popular among parents.

“She was my pre schoolteacher and she is now teaching my daughter prep! Just amazing,” one parent said.

“100% best prep teacher. So much experience and so dedicated for the best learning experience for all the children,” another wrote.

Originally published as Voting opens to find FNQ’s best prep teacher