Transforming the Lives of the Next Generation

From helping traumatised students to get a second chance at learning, to developing robotics programs that integrate Aboriginal language and culture, 12 inspiring teachers have today been recognised for their work in creating long-term meaningful change for their pupils, schools and the wider community. 

These 12 teachers are the 2019 recipients of the Commonwealth Bank Teaching Awards which, in partnership with national education charity Schools Plus, celebrate and reward remarkable teachers and school leaders with the aim of inspiring excellent practice in schools across Australia. 

Now in their third year, the awards are one of Australia’s most prestigious prizes for educators. In a ceremony in Sydney today, each recipient received a prize valued at $45,000 to assist with their professional development, roll out a new education project in their school, and take part in an overseas study tour to a high-performing education system. 

Kylie Macfarlane, CBA’s General Manager of Corporate Responsibility said, “We recognise the important role teachers and schools play in equipping students with the right skills, knowledge and experience to set them up for success. 

“We are delighted to celebrate the exceptional contribution of these 12 teachers today and the profound effect they have on their local communities. These awards are testament to their dedication and professionalism and we are committed to helping educators like them continue their invaluable work in inspiring the younger generations of tomorrow.” 

Rosemary Conn, CEO of Schools Plus, said “These 12 outstanding educators go to extraordinary lengths every day to create a connection with their students and provide the sort of teaching that can change students’ lives. They all share one view – that every child, no matter their background, has the ability to succeed. 

“The contribution teachers make to the development of our children is incredibly important and often undervalued in our communities. That’s why we’re so pleased to partner with the Commonwealth Bank to honour these remarkable teachers and their valuable efforts through these annual awards.” 

The award recipients were chosen from more than 400 education professionals who applied across Australia. The 2019 Teaching Fellows are: 

• Alison Rourke, Buxton Public School (now at Fairy Meadow Demonstration School), NSW 
• Ashley Stewart, Newton Moore Senior High School, WA 
• Chantel Mirzai, Auburn North Public School, NSW 
• Denise Lofts, Ulladulla High School, NSW 
• Erica Prosser, Holy Spirit College, QLD 
• Jessica Colleu Terradas, Como Secondary College, WA 
• John Townley, Cecil Andrews College, WA 
• Lorraine Evans, Malak Primary School, NT 
• Michael Smith, Marsden State High School, QLD 
• Monica St Baker, Hanwood Public School, NSW 
• Sarah Chapman, Townsville State High School, QLD 
• Sasha Mildenhall, Taylors Lakes Secondary College, VIC 

These 2019 winners will now join 24 alumni from previous years who have been nationally recognised as leaders and experts in their field, and who have made a real difference to their local community. 

For more information on the Commonwealth Bank Teaching Awards visit www.teachingawards.com.au