Several Central Coast schools, teachers and parents have been acknowledged for their outstanding achievements, resilience and contribution to public education at the 2022 NSW Minister’s and Secretary’s Awards for Excellence.
Nikyetta Pencheff from Woodport Public School received the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Her citation says Pencheff has demonstrated her commitment to the Australian Teaching Standards where she has excelled in many of the leadership areas.
“She has been able to establish sustainable and collaborative partnerships with the broader educational community,” it says.
“This award recognises her outstanding service, energetic support and dedication to innovative STEM education in Central Coast schools.
“It acknowledges the establishment of professional learning communities and outstanding achievement in improving the learning outcomes of all students.
“It also recognises the improvements in engagement and success of female and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in the Central Coast.”
Brad Lewis from Gosford Public School picked up the Secretary’s Award for Excellent Service.
His citation says he has had a long and distinguished career in his service to students.
“He is a highly valued Principal within the Mooney Mooney Principal Network for his professionalism and wealth of educational experience,” it says.
“Brad has held many important roles as an educational leader.
“In all the roles and responsibilities Brad has undertaken he has been held in high regard for his strong moral purpose to improve learning outcomes for all students.
“With Brad, every student is truly known, valued and cared for.”
Sally Yates of Wadalba Community School received a Parent of the Year award, having been an active parent representative at the school for a significant number of years.
Her citation says she has volunteered her time supporting and contributing to positive academic and social outcomes for all students.
“She can be seen organising and coordinating fundraisers to purchase resources, operating the canteen and attending all P&C meetings which are largely focused on rich conversations about curriculum and improving outcomes for all,” it says.
“The tireless efforts demonstrated by Sally Yates contributes to progress for students, staff and the wider community.”
Gorokan High School was recognised with an award for Outstanding School Initiative for its Banal-Ngaruga-Dhi Aboriginal curriculum.
“Reconciliation is the strengthening of relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians,” the citation says.
“Gorokan High School’s Local Aboriginal Curriculum has mobilised a community to unite behind an innovative approach to how this can be achieved.
“Anchored in Darkinjung culture, delivered in partnership with the NSWAECG and local knowledge-holders while prioritising learning on country, the Local Aboriginal Curriculum has elevated the position of Aboriginal culture and histories for all students.
“Through a balance of academic rigour and experiential learning, a dedicated Aboriginal curriculum is now available for all students from Year 7-12.”
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, congratulated all awardees.
Minister for Education and Early Learning, Sarah Mitchell, said the 128 awards showcase schools with innovative programs for literacy, numeracy, science, student wellbeing and community partnerships.
“It is such a privilege to celebrate so many positive and diverse achievements right across the state that highlight the excellence in our public schools,” Mitchell said.
NSW Department of Education Secretary, Georgina Harrisson said the awards provided a snapshot of the outstanding initiatives occurring across the entire NSW public education system.
“The awards reveal an ecosystem of innovative and collaborative teaching and learning,” she said.
Terry Collins