Four teachers from Bellingen Shire have received awards recognising their outstanding contribution to education.
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The awards from the Australian College of Educators recognise educators from preschools to tertiary level across Australia who are not only meeting their students' needs but going above and beyond.
Orama Public School Principal Katharine Sutherland said teacher Leah Anforth embodies those quality in all areas of school and community life.
Leah’s citation reads: “Leah is an exemplary educator. She develops a supportive rapport with her students, staff and the community. She understands the unique culture of Orama Public School and she always has her students’ needs at the forefront of her mind. Leah has led the implementation of Riverwatch in the school and the wider community. Leah’s skills in the education of sciences and the arts are engaging and inspiring.”
Bellingen High School Principal Kim Dixon said staff nominated those they felt were worthy of such an award, and Ann Phelan and Elizabeth Hoy were firm favourites.
Annie’s citation reads: “Annie is the heart and soul of the Bellingen Youth Orchestra and of Bellingen High School. She is beloved and revered by both the staff, students and local community. Annie is an exceptional classroom practitioner who gives of her time, energy and passion to the many students she teaches both within school hours and beyond. The Music Program at Bellingen High School is touted as one of the best in the State and this is due, in no small part, to Annie Phelan’s foundational and continued input. Testament to her credibility in our community was her nomination for the Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day Awards in Bellingen. I thoroughly endorse Annie as a most worthy recipient of a World Teacher’s Day Award as she embodies what our profession is all about: student-centred learning, led with passion, drive, commitment to excellence and a determination for individual, personal best success.”
Liz’s citation reads: “Liz is a teacher of considerable talent and experience. In support of her nomination, she brings a wealth of experience to the teaching rounds at Bellingen; she has coached successful sporting teams for many years and is integral to the school’s sporting success over the last decade, most notably in the areas of soccer, futsal and gymnastics - with students reaching State, National and International teams levels. An advocate of a healthy lifestyle, most recently, Liz asssited in organising AFL afternoons for girls - mothers and daughters attended - to encourage bonding, fitness and another opportunity in Bellingen - a small community with a big heart, just like Liz herself.”
Kay Atkins from Dorrigo High School and Michael Jarrett (who works extensively with Bellingen Shire schools and teaches the Gumbaynggirr language) also received awards.