2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year 

Kim Diegutis

Nominated by: Deputy Principal, Sarah Quinn and Prep Teacher, Josie Fagan

Congratulations to Kim Diegutis, a Teacher Aide at Middlemount Community School, who is the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year. 

Kim is an integral part of the Middlemount Community School team. She demonstrates exceptional dedication and professionalism through her provision of targeted literacy, numeracy and wellbeing support for prep students, including those diagnosed with additional needs.

Watch our video to meet Kim and hear about the impact she has on the students she supports. Discover Kim's role in innovative literacy programs that make learning fun in Prep whilst building essential reading skills and fostering confident readers. See the difference one passionate teacher aide can make.  

Then, read on to learn more about Kim's commitment to student learning and wellbeing and what nominators, Sarah Quinn and Josie Fagan, have to say about Kim. 

Kim has implemented a 4-week graphophonic intervention program that has had significant, measurable improvements in students' literacy outcomes. Her data-driven approach and hands-on, age-appropriate teaching methods have notably enhanced student learning and wellbeing.

Nominators Sarah Quinn and Josie Fagan said "Kim's proficiency in delivering this evidence-based literacy intervention, aligned to the Science of Reading, has not only ensured a great reading foundation for early years students, but also improved students’ confidence, capability and participation in other Key Learning Areas."

Kim’s commitment to student learning and wellbeing is evident through her systematic reading and numeracy interventions, differentiated instruction, and social-emotional guidance. Her ability to monitor and adapt to student needs has led to remarkable progress, particularly in literacy, where she has significantly improved student graphophonic skills.

Kim's nominators said that "Kim truly makes a difference."

Kim's approach to collaboration is characterised by her proactive communication, evidence-based practices, and critical reflection. She works closely with teachers to develop and implement targeted interventions while maintaining detailed records that support student progress and instructional adjustments.

Kim regularly meets with teachers to discuss student learning goals and progress, ensuring timely and effective communication. Her diligent record-keeping reduces teacher workload and provides valuable data for NCCD compliance and personalised learning records.

Kim fosters a culture of continuous improvement and collective efficacy among her colleagues. She actively participates in teacher aide meetings, shares best practices, and engages in peer observations and mentoring, which has significantly contributed to the professional growth of her team.

"Kim's professionalism and reliability provides stability, certainty and consistency for the students and staff she works with. The positive, collegial relationships and collaboration between Kim and her colleagues is evidenced daily," said Sarah Quinn and Josie Fagan.

Kim is committed to professional development, consistently seeking opportunities to enhance her skills and knowledge. She reflects on her practice, identifies areas for improvement, and implements changes with fidelity.

Kim played a pivotal role in developing and enacting the MCS Collegial Engagement Framework, involving peer observations and feedback. Her proactive engagement in professional development, both within and outside school has established a strong professional learning culture at Middlemount Community School.

Kim's continuous professional growth and commitment to sharing her knowledge have positively impacted student and staff outcomes. Her effective and explicit instruction has been invaluable, particularly in a setting with a high percentage of early career teachers.

To conclude, Kim's nominators said that "the result of Kim's continual knowledge and skill development has resulted in a highly skilled and knowledgeable teacher aide who has positively impacted the growth and knowledge of students and peers."

Congratulations, Kim, on your exceptional achievements!

Congratulations to the State Finalists in this year's Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards.

The 2024 Finalists have been recognised for their positive impact on student learning and wellbeing, collaboration with colleagues, and improved practice through professional learning. 

Thank you to the school leaders and teachers who made time to recognise the work of their teacher aides by submitting a nomination.

We hope you are inspired by these outstanding finalists and enjoy reading about the significant contribution they are making to students, their schools, and the community. 

Join our mailing list and get the latest award news delivered to your inbox.


State Finalist

Jessica Sousa Ornelas

Narrabundah College, ACT

Nominated by: Mary Weddell, Student Support Teacher/Coordinator

 

Jessica Sousa Ornelas, a Learning Support Assistant at Narrabundah College, is the Australian Capital Territory Finalist in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Jessica is a valuable part of the Student Support unit at Narrabundah College. Through her empathy, pragmatism, and intellectual capacity she supports secondary students with a diverse range of needs.

"Jessica has demonstrated exceptional ability to understand the range and complexity of the issues that arise with young adults who are referred to Student Support Services," said Mary Weddell, Student Support Teacher-Coordinator.

Jessica has a positive impact on student learning and wellbeing by helping students manage their individual challenges to complete their education successfully whether their pathway leads to ATAR level, Year 12 Certificate or Secondary College Record.

Jessica's support includes modifying assessments, guiding vocational pathways, and using assisted technologies. She maintains the organisation of student support spaces, ensuring there is space to work with students to create or rehearse presentations as well as accompanying them as a support person.

Jessica demonstrates the ability to relate to students on all level which provides talking points to calm and engage students. Using her mental health first aid kit, Jessica provides individual support for students who are experiencing difficulties with their emotional health. Her efforts have led to all 30 to 40 regular students in Student Support receiving their certifications in 2023, with similar success anticipated for the current cohort.

Jessica collaborates effectively with colleagues, contributing to positive educational outcomes through teamwork and communication. She regularly attends Student Services meetings and works closely with teachers.

Jessica's collaboration extends to organising resources with the library and coordinating with the front office for student needs. She helps update the schoolwide database to show appropriate scaffold assessment items and provide tailored materials.

Jessica works with the school staff and outside services to identify and support at-risk students. A notable instance of her collaboration is arranging comprehensive support for a transgender student to attend the Year 12 formal, involving multiple school and community teams.

Jessica's commitment to professional development has significantly improved her practice, enhancing her support for students.

She has engaged in extensive training, including Domestic Family Violence Training, First Aid, and various mandatory education modules. Her initiative to start a weekly Creative Writing Club has offered students a creative outlet and furthered her connection with the student body.

Jessica's conscientious approach to learning and reflecting on her practice has made her an increasingly effective communicator and decision-maker, continuously enhancing her professional capabilities.


State Finalist

Leesa Clift

The Scots School, NSW

Nominated by: Mary Laughton, Head of Inclusive Education

 

Leesa Clift, a Senior School Learning Assistant at The Scots School Albury, is the New South Wales Finalist in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Leesa has been part of the Scots School for four and a half years and, during this time she has made an outstanding contribution to the whole school community, and demonstrated a commitment to student success and wellbeing.

"Leesa has a fantastic ability to create positive relationships with any student, and in doing so, helps students to reach their educational and personal potential," said Ms Mary Laughton, Head of Inclusive Education.

Leesa has significantly impacted student learning and wellbeing by leading The Scots School's Inclusive Education team. Using her unique ability to create positive relationships, Leesa organises and plans student support, including providing one-on-one assistance. Her strategies have alleviated student anxiety around tasks and improved submission rates, creating a more balanced and supportive academic environment.

Through Leesa's initiatives, the Inclusive Education Team has observed a notable decrease in late submissions and missed assignments among students she supports. Her efforts also ease the pressure on parents, contributing to a more harmonious home environment.

Leesa's collaboration with colleagues is exemplary. She consistently engages with teachers to address student needs, reviews and refines support strategies, and contributes to department discussions with evidence-based insights.

Leesa actively meets with teachers to discuss lesson plans, provides detailed feedback, and creates resources to support teaching. Her clear and concise records and feedback help refine educational practices and enhance student support.

Committed to professional growth, Leesa continually enhances her practice by mentoring new staff, developing best practice frameworks, and seeking professional development opportunities.

Leesa's mentorship has been invaluable in training new Inclusive Education staff, and her dedication to personal and team improvement strengthens our entire department. Her proactive approach to professional development and practice improvements is highly commendable.

Leesa's commitment to the students, staff and parents at the school as well as her professional development makes her a highly valued member of The Scots School community.


State Finalist

Kiera Ryan

Zuccoli Primary School, NT

Nominated by: Melanie Johnstone, Highly Accomplished Teacher

 

Kiera Ryan, a Classroom Support Officer at Zuccoli Primary School, is the Northern Territory Finalist in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Kiera has had a positive impact at Zuccoli Primary School by being responsible for numeracy and literacy intervention to build students' capacity and meet the Australian Curriculum achievement standards.

"Kiera is passionate about supporting students to achieve their best and build their confidence at school. She is respected by students, teachers and community members," said Melanie Johnstone, year 5/6 teacher.

Kiera has made a significant positive impact on the learning and wellbeing of students at Zuccoli Primary School. She provides targeted literacy and numeracy intervention programs, helping students from Year 4 to Year 6 achieve their academic goals and build confidence.

Kiera has used the SpeldSA and Meaningful Maths programs to support students and she has created tailored lessons to enhance students' reading, writing, and spelling skills. Kiera's differentiated teaching strategies and ability to connect learning to real-world contexts have been particularly effective in engaging students and improving their outcomes.

One notable example is a student who struggled to write more than one sentence. By incorporating the student's interest Kiera helped them write a paragraph which significantly improved their writing skills. This approach led to the student's ability to write descriptive sentences and basic paragraphs, transferring these skills to other subjects like HASS, Science, and Writing.

Kiera actively participates in fortnightly collaborative planning time with her colleagues in the Silver Team, contributing ideas and developing specific literacy and numeracy goals for students. Kiera keeps detailed records of student progress, including annotated work samples and anecdotal notes, which are used for NCCD data collection.

Kiera has created student workbooks to track progress and gather evidence, sharing these insights during collaborative planning time to adjust teaching strategies and learning goals. This data-driven approach has enhanced the effectiveness of intervention programs, benefiting both students and teachers.

Kiera's commitment to professional development is evident. She participates in school-wide workshops on numeracy, literacy, and social-emotional learning (SEL), applying new skills to her intervention programs. Her involvement in workshops, such as those on the NT EAL/D learning progressions and Meaningful Maths, has deepened her understanding of student assessment and goal setting.

Kiera uses her professional development experiences to accurately record student data and collaborate with teachers to set SMART learning goals. Her dedication to improving her practice through continuous learning has significantly impacted student achievement at Zuccoli Primary School.


State Finalist

Sophie Herring

Northern Christian School, TAS

Nominated by: Kerrie Prentice, Learning Enrichment Coordinator

 

Sophie Herring, a Teacher Aide at Northern Christian School, is the Tasmania Finalist in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Sophie embodies the values of dedication and excellence in education. Sophie's dedication and versatility have been pivotal in transforming student learning and wellbeing at Northern Christian School. A past student at Northern Christian College herself, Sophie is an invaluable member of the school community.

"Sophie's unwavering commitment to our students has earned her profound respect and admiration within our school community," said Ms Kerrie Prentice

Sophie has a positive impact on both learning and wellbeing through her diverse roles by effectively facilitating the 'Minilit Program,' supporting classroom initiatives, and nurturing Kinder students. Her ability to work with individuals and small groups enables her to tailor support to ensure that every child, including those with additional needs, receives essential guidance and encouragement.

Sophie's impact is evidenced by the substantial progress seen in students' literacy skills. Using the school's programs, notable growth can be seen in kindergarten students as well as improved overall academic performance.

In collaboration with her colleagues, Sophie works closely with teachers and the Learning Enrichment Team to plan and adapt programs to accommodate all student needs and abilities. She also engages in community events, such as the school's light Festival and Book Week, demonstrating her integral role in the school's collaborative spirit.

Sophie's teamwork is highlighted by her effective management of the Minilit timetable and active involvement in school events. Her detailed feedback and positive relationships with students, staff, and parents enhance the educational experience and support continuous assessment and improvement.

Sophie has actively pursued professional development, and she has completed numerous courses to improve her practice including First Aid Training, SALT Online Compliance Training, and various assessment workshops such as DIBELS. These efforts have equipped Sophie with the skills to support both students and teachers as well as enable her to contribute to student safety, accurate assessments, and enriched classroom support.

Through her ongoing professional development, Sophie integrates new skills into her practice, enhancing both her and the school's capabilities. Her contributions extend beyond the classroom, positively impacting the wider community.

Sophie Herring's nomination reflects her outstanding dedication, impactful contributions to student learning and wellbeing, collaborative approach, and commitment to professional growth.


State Finalist

Nina Portail

Berry Street School, VIC

Nominated by: Rebecca Robinson, Principal and Melinda Patterson, Learning Specialist

 

Nina Portail, an Education Support Worker at Berry Street School, Morwell Campus, is the Victoria Finalist in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards.

Nina is a dedicated educator whose work ethic and commitment to student success have significantly enhanced the learning environment at Berry Street School.

"Nina has an exceptional work ethnic and dedication to providing the students that the school opportunities to successfully thrive, achieve and belong in varied educational options within their unique and often challenging life circumstances," said Rebecca Robinson, Principal

In her role, Nina has made a substantial impact on student learning and wellbeing through her work with the MacqLit literacy intervention program. By administering assessments, creating accurate trackers, and tailoring support, she has improved literacy skills while supporting students' emotional needs.

Nina collaborates effectively with all staff including working with the wellbeing staff to use trauma-informed practices, maintain open communication about program implementation and student progress. Her proactive approach ensures a unified strategy in student support, reflecting her strong team spirit and leadership.

Her collaboration extends to developing student profiles and working with the leadership team to refine these tools, ensuring they meet educational standards. This teamwork has improved both instructional strategies and the overall support provided to students.

Nina continually seeks to improve her practice by professional and personal development. This is evident in Nina's pursuit of a master's degree in Play Therapy and working to enhance staff understanding of the MacqLit program. Her efforts include conducting workshops and integrating new insights into her practice, demonstrating a commitment to professional growth.

Nina's work as an Education Support Worker has successfully enhanced student learning and wellbeing. Her effective collaboration with colleagues, and commitment to professional development have significantly enriched the educational experience at Berry Street School, Morwell campus.


State Finalist

Debbie Horner

Dalyellup College, WA

Nominated by: Eloise Kyneur, Principal

 

Debbie Horner, Special Needs Lead Education Assistant at Dalyellup College, is the Western Australia Finalist in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Debbie's extraordinary dedication and expertise in supporting students with special needs make her a vital asset to the Dalyellup College. Her warmth, humour, creativity and professionalism are valued by the whole school community.

"Debbie has supported students both academically and emotionally with the deepest of commitment. Debbie's devotion and dedication to our student is an inspiration to the entire school community - leadership, teachers, EA's and students alike," said Eloise Kyneur, Principal

Debbie has impacted student learning and wellbeing by providing tailored support to a vision-impaired Year 11 student. She has not only facilitated academic engagement but also supported the student's emotional adjustment, ensuring they can navigate school life and complete their ATAR pathway successfully.

Debbie's impact is evident through her innovative adaptations, including modifying classroom materials, creating accessible tools, and supporting emotional regulation. She also works closely with relevant education authorities to ensure students have full support during exams. Her work has enabled the vision-impaired student to achieve notable academic progress, including passing all Year 12 mid-year ATAR exams and maintaining high attendance and engagement.

In her role, Debbie manages a team of 11 Special Needs Education Assistants, coordinating schedules and training to ensure comprehensive support for all students. She fosters collaboration among staff and multiple education authorities such as Department of Education, SIDE, SEN Sensory and SCSA. Debbie is a strong supporter for SEN students, ensuring their needs are met across the school environment.

Debbie's leadership is demonstrated by her effective management of the Education Assistant team, coordination of resources, and advocacy for SEN students' needs. Her collaborative efforts have led to a cohesive and supportive EA team, and her proactive approach has ensured seamless support for students, particularly the vision-impaired student.

Debbie is committed to professional growth and regularly engages in targeted training and learning opportunities, benefiting both herself and her team. Her focus on continuous improvement ensures that the EA team remains current with best practices and industry standards, which enhances the overall educational environment.

Debbie Horner's nomination highlights her commitment and innovative impact on student learning and wellbeing, effective collaboration, and dedication to professional practice.

Congratulations to the Highly Commended nominees in this year's Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

The Highly Commended nominees have been recognised for their significant contribution to student learning and wellbeing, collaboration with colleagues, and improved practice through professional learning.  

Thank you to the many schools that submitted a nomination and made time to recognise the work of their teacher aides. 

We hope you enjoy reading about the difference these Highly Commended nominees make to students, their schools, and the community.    

Join our mailing list and get the latest award news delivered to your inbox.


Highly Commended

Michelle Roser

Margaret Jurd College, NSW

Nominated by: Kevin O'Connor, Teaching and Learning Coordinator

 

Michelle Roser, a Teacher Aide at Margaret Jurd College Shortland, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

With 11 years of dedicated service, Michelle excels in supporting students academically and emotionally, especially in Mathematics, while fostering and supporting their wellbeing through extracurricular activities like surfing and fishing.

Michelle is known for her patience, empathy, and unwavering commitment. She maintains a positive and supportive environment, actively engages with students and staff, and models resilience and perseverance through various school events.

"Michelle's impact is profound; she not only improves academic performance but also significantly enhances student self-esteem and inclusivity," said Kevin O'Connor (Teaching and Learning Coordinator)


Highly Commended

Tricia Stamoulos

The King's School, NSW

Nominated by: Alison Lawson,Educational Support Services (ESS) Coordinator

 

Tricia Stamloulos, a Teacher Assistant at The King's School Tudor House, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Since joining the school in 2022, Tricia has transitioned from supporting various stages to focusing on a student with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Early Stage One. Her adaptability and commitment have fostered an inclusive and supportive learning environment. 

Tricia excels in creating a compassionate atmosphere, employing individualised strategies like breathing exercises and structured routines to aid student regulation. She effectively collaborates with teachers and external specialists, ensuring tailored support that enhances student learning and wellbeing. 

"Tricia's dedication and ability to integrate new strategies and practices have profoundly impacted our students' success and overall school environment," said Alison Lawson.


Highly Commended

Estera Buciu

Groves Christian College, QLD

Nominated by: Lyndall McCorkell, Prep Teacher, Hannah Friend, Head of Prep Year & Kristy Frame, Head of Foundation Phase

 

Estera Buciu, a Teacher Aide at Groves Christian College, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards.

With 21 years of experience, Esti has recently transitioned to an Inclusion Support Teacher Aide, enhancing support across five Prep classes and significantly impacting student learning and wellbeing through personalised interventions and braille instruction. 

Esti's approach combines passion, warmth, and calmness, fostering a supportive classroom environment. She provides individualised and small-group support, and mentors new aides, demonstrating a commitment to both student growth and team development. 

"Esti has been such a wonderful support for me whilst still learning my role as a teacher aide," says a colleague.


Highly Commended

Christopher Bryett

Palmerston College, NT

Nominated by: Thevi Chelliah, Special Education Teacher

 

Christopher Bryett, a Special Education Support Officer at Palmerston College Special Education Centre, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards.

For the past 2 years, Chris has skilfully implemented the Rock and Water program across the SEC's 17 classes and the Year 7 to 9 campuses, impacting over 400 students. His efforts have notably improved student achievement, engagement, and wellbeing by teaching essential self-awareness and social skills. 

Chris excels in fostering an inclusive environment through dynamic Rock and Water sessions, which have led to reduced bullying and enhanced cooperative learning. His commitment extends beyond the classroom, including future plans to involve parents and integrate the program with local primary schools. 

Chris's dedication to the Rock and Water program has transformed the school's environment, enhanced student resilience and fostered a supportive, inclusive community.


Highly Commended

Danielle Gaylard

Zuccoli Primary School, NT

Nominated by: Karen Tagumasi, Grady Redway, Jessica Hercus, Classroom Teachers

 

Danielle Gaylard, a dedicated Assistant Officer at Zuccoli Primary School, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Since joining the school in 2022, Danielle has brought exceptional expertise and enthusiasm to her role, particularly in supporting Year 1 and 2 students. Her impact on student learning and wellbeing is evident through her effective literacy interventions, which have transformed many pre-readers into confident early readers. Danielle's commitment to professional development and evidence-based practices has significantly enhanced her students' academic performance and confidence. 

Danielle excels in collaborative efforts, actively participating in planning sessions and working closely with colleagues and the Special Education Unit. Her dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment strengthens the entire school's educational approach. 

Danielle's nominators described her unwavering commitment and positive energy as impactful to students and colleagues alike. Her exceptional contributions make her a cherished member of the team.


Highly Commended

Angelique Delport

Chinchilla Christian College, QLD

Nominated by: Ashleigh Wiggins, Teacher

 

Angelique Delport, a dedicated Teacher Aide at Chinchilla Christian College, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards.

Since joining the college, Angelique has become renowned for her exceptional ability to support students and create a nurturing learning environment. Her approach combines kindness, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to student success. Angelique has impacted both student learning and wellbeing, as she continuously goes above and beyond to meet the diverse needs of her students. 

Angelique's work is marked by her positive relationships with students, her innovative resource creation, and her role as a supportive figure in students' lives. Her efforts, such as creating engaging educational games and consistently supporting students to meet their individualised curriculum goals, highlight her dedication and effectiveness. 

"Angelique's boundless enthusiasm and commitment make her an invaluable asset to our school community. Her support extends far beyond the classroom, and her impact on our students' lives is immeasurable," says Ashleigh Wiggins.


Highly Commended

Jacinta Moore

Miami State High School, QLD

Nominated by: Tamra Murray and Sam Pelham, Head of Inclusive Practices

 

Jacinta Moore, a dedicated Teacher Aide at Miami State High School, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Since joining Miami State High School in February 2022, Jacinta has become a cornerstone of the Inclusive Practices Department. Jacinta's proactive and compassionate approach ensures that every student feels valued and capable of achieving their best. 

Jacinta's impact is reflected in her thoughtful and adaptable support. Her creative resource creation, such as custom board games for history lessons, has enhanced student engagement and learning. Notably, her work has led to substantial progress for students, with some even exiting individualised curriculum plans to fully participate at their year level. 

"Jacinta's unwavering dedication and innovative support have transformed our school environment. Her ability to connect with students and colleagues alike, coupled with her commitment to ongoing professional development, make her an exceptional teacher aide and a true asset to our school community," says Sam Pelham.


Highly Commended

Matt Schmitz

Berry Street School Morwell Campus, VIC

Nominated by: Melinda Patterson, Learning Specialist

 

Matt Schmitz, works as Education Support (Teacher Aide) at Berry Street School and has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Matt has worked at Berry Street for two years, significantly enhancing student career planning, goals and aspirations, as well as supporting and advocating for inclusivity within the school. 

Matt excels in providing personalised career guidance, organising workplace visits, and creating inclusive resources. His dedication to LGBTQI+ advocacy and support fosters a welcoming environment, greatly benefiting students' academic and personal growth. 

"Matt's unwavering support and innovative approach have transformed our career programs and made a profound impact on our LGBTQI+ students," says the Berry Street School Leadership Team.


Highly Commended

Amy Barnett

King's Baptist Grammar School, SA

Nominated by: Bronwyn Waldeck, Leader of Student Divesity R-12

 

Amy Barnett, an Educational Support Officer at King's Baptist Grammar School, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Amy has dedicated over 15 years to supporting students from R-12, excelling in helping children develop regulation tools and improving literacy and numeracy outcomes. She also spearheaded the school's "chill" zone and gross motor coordination programs. 

Amy's proactive approach in creating and running programs, combined with her collaborative spirit and commitment to continuous learning, makes her an invaluable asset. 

Bronwyn Waldeck, Leader of Student Diversity R-12, praises Amy's exceptional ability to make every child feel valued and supported, highlighting her as a trusted, skilled, and enthusiastic team member.


Highly Commended

Stephanie Hosgood

Salisbury East High School, SA

Nominated by: Amelia Molnar, Student Wellbeing Leader

 

Stephanie Hosgood, a Student Support Services Coordinator at Salisbury East High School, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Stephanie has dedicated over 14 years to our school, excelling in managing timetables, student attendance, and enrolments. Her support has significantly enhanced student learning and wellbeing, providing tailored interventions and fostering a supportive environment. 

Her proactive approach includes managing complex timetables, addressing attendance issues, and supporting VET programs. She is praised for her ability to identify and address student needs promptly. 

"Stephanie's exceptional support in managing student services and her dedication to fostering a nurturing environment have profoundly impacted our school community," says Amelia Molnar.


Highly Commended

Suzanne Hall

Wagin District High School, WA

Nominated by: Tanya Hancock, Special Needs Education Assistant

 

Suzanne Hall, a Special Needs Education Assistant at Wagin District High School, has been Highly Commended in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards. 

Suzanne has worked at Wagin District High School for 17 years, significantly impacting students' learning and well-being through her dedication, including out-of-hours support and resource creation. 

Suzanne is known for her compassion, empathy, and dedication. She consistently goes above and beyond, from attending student events to personalising lesson plans and providing emotional support, ensuring every student feels valued and supported. 

"Suzanne's dedication and compassion have profoundly impacted our students, creating a supportive and nurturing environment that enhances their learning and personal growth," says Tanya Wheeler.

Congratulations to the following teacher aides who have been nominated in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year awards, and thank you to all the school leaders who took the time and effort to acknowledge the valuable role of their teacher aides.

SCHOOL

NOMINEE

NOMINATED BY:

Adelaide High School, SA Tracy Papanotis Toni Angus
     
Berry Street School, SA Matt Schmitz Melinda Patterson
     
Berry Street School, SA Nina Portail Melinda Patterson
     
Chairo Christian School, VIC Jacqueline Murphy Anna Cosio-Maramba
     
Chinchilla Christian College, QLD Angelique Delport Ashleigh Wiggins
     
Dalyellup College, WA Debbie Horner Eloise Kyneur
     
Groves Christian College, QLD Estera Buciu Lyndall McCorkell, Hannah Friend & Kristy Frame
     
Key College - Youth Off the Streets, NSW Finlay Grabham Alex Rowe
     
King's Baptist Grammar School, SA Amy Barnett Bronwyn Waldeck
     
Korowal School, NSW Nathanael Hunter Cindy Barnsley
     
Macquarie University Special Education Centre School, NSW Betsy Isaac Kerrie Nelson
     
Margaret Jurd College, NSW Michelle Roser Kevin O'Connor
     
Mater Dei Primary School, NSW Annette Simeon Shelley Watts & Kathryn Smith
     
Miami State High School, QLD Jacinta Moore Sam Pelham & Tamra Murray
     
Middlemount Community School, QLD Kim Diegutis Sarah Quinn & Josie Fagan
     
Narrabundah College, ACT Jessica Sousa Ornelas Mary Weddell
     
Newstead College, TAS Jasmin Garwood Alarna Hingston
     
Northern Christian School, TAS Sophie Herring Kerrie Prentice
     
Palmerston College, NT Christopher Bryett Thevi Chelliah
     
Salisbury East High School, SA Stephanie Hosgood Amelia Molnar
     
Scots All Saints College, NSW Ann Begg Sarah O'Neill
     
St Bernards Primary School, VIC Baylee Holland Cam Green
     
St Columban's College, QLD Daile Johnston Mandy Freshwater
     
The King's School, NSW Tricia Stamoulos Alison Lawson
     
The Scots School, NSW Leesa Clift Mary Laughton
     
Trinity Lutheran College, QLD Rebecca Kite Melissa de Barros
     
Wagin District High School, WA Suzanne Hall Tanya Hancock
     
Yanchep Rise Primary School, WA Kay Hicks Katrina Kirkwood
     
Yarra Glen Primary School, VIC Danielle Joseph Jessica Amey
     
Zuccoli Primary School, NT Danielle Gaylard Karen Tagumasi, Grady Redway & Jessica Hercus
     
Zuccoli Primary School, NT Kiera Ryan Melanie Johnstone