SIX outstanding educators have been acknowledged for their innovation and leadership at the annual Brisbane Catholic Education Excellence in Teaching Awards.
With more than 35 finalists representing 14 schools, family, friends, sponsors and special guests gathered at Victoria Park Golf Club to witness Brisbane archdiocese vicar general Monsignor Peter Meneely and BCE executive director Pam Betts present the awards and congratulate the winners.
The awards continue to recognise teachers’ achievements, with a record number nominated in 2016.
Msgr Meneely presented James Garrahy, from St Teresa’s Catholic College, Noosaville, the Excellence in Teaching Religious Education Award and Alicki Bellas, from Trinity College, Beenleigh, the Excellence as an Early Career Teacher Award.
Andrea Hickey, from St Columban’s College, Caboolture, claimed the Excellence in Teaching Award and Nick Hurley, from Christ the King Primary School, Deception Bay, the Excellence in Leadership for Learning and Teaching Award.
The Team Excellence in Learning and Teaching Award was bestowed on the Parent Partnership Team from Chisholm Catholic College, Cornubia, and the Outstanding Contribution to Learning and Teaching Award was given to Loretta Swann, from Xavier Catholic College, Hervey Bay, and accepted by the principal Kerry Sidaway.
Msgr Meneely congratulated all nominees saying their crucial work in promoting a Catholic education in varied and unique ways deserved everyone’s praise and thanks.
“Your work has set you apart from others in the field,” he said.
“You should feel justifiably proud because every day in your classrooms you skilfully open eyes to the world, engender curiosity and ultimately shape lives for the future.”
Miss Betts said the awards recognised how the nominees worked to nurture the growth of students in Catholic schools, either in teaching, leading or mentoring, and in many other ways unseen.
