Kimberly Zammit: Warringa Park teacher recognised for ‘outstanding’ work

A Wyndham teacher has been recognised for her “outstanding” contribution to later years education and employment.

A Wyndham educator has been recognised as Victoria’s best secondary school teacher at the Victorian Education Excellence awards.

Warringa Park School’s Kimberly Zammit took out the top spot as outstanding secondary teacher, with the award recognising the “instrumental” role she’s played in improving student engagement with the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning.

“Kimberley has transformed Later Years education and outcomes at the school … and across the wider Wyndham network,” the award nomination reads.

“A passionate advocate for inclusive learning opportunities, informed by student voice and agency, Kimberley has increased student’s access and inclusion in vocational learning.”

Ms Zammit described receiving the award as a “joy and honour”.

“It certainly reaffirms that the work we do does make a difference to the lives of young people and inspires me to continue,” she said.

She said she was driven in her profession by seeing growth in her students and works to encourage students to have agency over their learning.

“I believe students respond well when they feel heard and validated,” she said.

“By giving the students choice and agency over how they demonstrate their learning, they thrive.”

While VCAL is not the correct path for every student, Ms Zammit believes the emphasis on industry experience and practical skills gives those interested an opportunity to follow an “individualised pathway”.

Warringa Park School's Kim Zammit claimed the award for outstanding secondary teacher in the 2022 Victorian Education Excellence Awards. Picture: Kim Zammit.

Young teacher Emily Roberts from Footscray Primary School was also named as a finalist for the Outstanding Early Career Primary Teacher award.

Ms Roberts began her teaching career in 2020 and was quickly appointed a year level leader and school council representative.

She was nominated for the award because of her “strong focus” on student learning and engagement.

“Embracing coaching and productive feedback, Emily constantly searches for ways to improve her practice in the classroom,” the nomination reads.

This year, the awards mark 150 years of public education in Victoria.