The 2024 Australian Teacher Aide Appreciation Week Competition Winner is
King's Christian College, QLD
At King’s Christian College, QLD, they celebrated their dedicated Education Assistants with a delightful lunch organised by the Primary Office staff, along with thoughtful gifts and cards signed by the students they support. During the lunch, the Art Teacher led a peaceful Landscape Collage Art activity, while the EAs also enjoyed background music and conversation. King's College sent a communication out to their school community recognising the vital role these EAs play in the lives of the students and the positive impact they have on the College. Families were urged to support this celebration by encouraging their children to offer words of gratitude for their EAs and to thank them personally. The EAs are a compassionate and resourceful team who always inspire students to do their best.
Amazing teacher aides embody a blend of dedication, compassion, and reliability. They are not only hardworking and attentive but also bring a genuine care for the students' learning and well-being.
The entries in our morning competition have highlighted these essential traits, showcasing how exceptional education support teams consistently go above and beyond.
Every year the standard of competition gets better, and the entries were so much fun to read and view.
Congratulations to King's Christian College on winning an Australian Teacher Aide Appreciation Week Morning Tea valued at $150!
We would like to give special commendations to Amity College, Carey Baptist College and Chairo Christian School for showing us, in their entry, that they not only expressed their gratitude to the teacher aides directly, but they also took the extra step of demonstrating to the entire school and community how much these educators matter. They did this by holding whole-school assemblies, posting on social media, and sending out emails as well as hosting some amazing food-inspired celebrations!
As part of the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide Appreciation Week celebrations, held from September 2nd to 6th all of these schools made great efforts to show their appreciation to their education support staff...
Al-Taqwa College, VIC, sent us lots of photos of their fun-loving teacher aide team engaging with students and joining in with enjoyable themed days at school. It looks like a fun place to work and learn!
Amamoor State School, QLD, took a creative approach to put the spotlight on their teacher aides by crafting engaging 'getting to know you' posters. These vibrant displays featured fun facts about each teacher aide, celebrating their unique contributions and personalities. In addition, the school presented the teacher aides with thoughtfully chosen gifts as a token of appreciation. This recognition shows the school’s gratitude for the dedication and hard work of their teacher aides.
Amity College, NSW, celebrated their incredible Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) with a heartfelt display of gratitude. This special occasion was shared with the entire school community through emails and social media posts, spreading the word about the extraordinary dedication of the LSA team. To honour their unwavering commitment and genuine care, the LSAs were treated to a delightful celebratory lunch. Each member of the team received a personalised certificate and a unique, hand-crafted gift: exquisite, crocheted flowers to symbolise the happiness and sunshine they spread. It’s clear that the LSAs illuminate the days of everyone they meet, and we are thrilled to see gratitude for their impact extending far beyond the school walls.
The Education Support Officers at Bacchus Marsh Grammar, Woodlea Campus, VIC, were treated to some delicious snacks as a big thank you for all their hard work at the school. One of the classes went to the extra effort to write individual thank you cards to really show the ESOs what their support means to the students.
At Borden Primary School, WA, size isn’t everything when it comes to showing appreciation. Despite being a small school, they have a big heart for their amazing teacher aides. Every student joined in the effort to create personalised appreciation cards with heartfelt messages and these special cards were presented to the dedicated teacher aides during a staff meeting. To top off the celebration, the entire staff gathered for a joyous afternoon tea, coming together to honour and celebrate the remarkable contributions of the teacher aides. It’s clear that at Borden Primary, gratitude and community spirit come in large doses!
Members of Carey Baptist College, WA, went above and beyond to show how much their support staff mean to them with all Education Assistants and Technicians receiving gifts of invaluable multipurpose keys or beautiful hand-made earrings created by a year 10 student of the school. There were donuts for everyone as well as coffee vouchers for those ‘slump’ day pick-me-ups and a delicious morning tea. To top off the celebrations, members of the school community took turns in writing warm and personal messages of appreciation for all the EAs and Technicians at Carey Baptist School, cementing the idea that they are the ‘super glue’ that holds the school together!
Chairo Christian School, Pakenham Campus, VIC, celebrated Appreciation Week in a way that truly warmed hearts, sharing the festivities with both the school and wider community through their social media page. The highlight of the week was a Junior School assembly dedicated to honouring the devoted learning support team. This event showcased the school's deep commitment to recognising the essential role these educators play in supporting students with diverse needs.
The Teacher Aide team at Collingwood Park State School, QLD, felt truly appreciated by the school's teachers and administrative staff. Not only did they enjoy a lovely lunch and receive thoughtful gift bags as a thank-you for their hard work, but they also won the ultimate gratitude prize—having all their duties covered for the day! The aides enthusiastically participate in the school's themed days and put a lot of effort into their Book Week costumes. It's clear that these fun-loving aides take pride in spreading joy throughout the school!
The teacher aides at Edith Creek Primary School, North West TAS, were celebrated with a delightful morning tea, flowers, and thoughtful gifts from the principal and teachers, accompanied by a heartfelt message of thanks. The teacher aides are appreciated and valued as integral members of the school community. They are actively included in students’ wellbeing and learning goals, making the experience of supporting and nurturing young learners a truly rewarding experience. The school also encourages and supports the TAs in their own professional development and wellbeing.
Gordonvale State High School, QLD, went above and beyond in showing their appreciation for their teacher aides by presenting not only with certificates and delicious treats, but also by creating imaginative 'wanted' posters. These creative posters, adorned with playful nicknames and vibrant designs, celebrated the unique contributions of each teacher aide. The posters also featured a fun and interactive element, inviting everyone to give a friendly 'HIGH 5!' to any member of the support team they encountered. This heartfelt gesture highlighted the school's deep appreciation and recognition of the invaluable role teacher aides play in the educational experience.
Governor Stirling Senior High School, WA, celebrated its Education Assistants by having students write poems expressing what the team means to them. Throughout the week, students shared their appreciation with the staff, highlighting the valuable contributions of the EAs. On Friday, a special morning tea was organised by the administration and teachers, featuring an array of homemade treats dedicated to the EA team. It was a truly wonderful celebration!
Maharishi School, VIC, has less than 60 students, and the significance of their teacher aides shines brightly. The school has seven teacher aides who wear many hats with skill. In such a small setting, their roles are diverse. They assist in classrooms, support teachers during yard duty, manage the library, set up resources, and even lend a hand in the school office. Their versatility and talent enhance the educational experience for every student. In honour of Teacher Aide Appreciation Week, the school decided to spotlight these amazing aides and, in the lead-up, a series of heartfelt messages were captured from students expressing their gratitude.
2024 team finalist, Marsden Park Anglican College, NSW, had a special assembly for their Learning Mentor Team. The school wanted to show their appreciation and celebrate the team's work in supporting student learning and wellbeing and their commitment to helping the school operate smoothly.
Moama Anglican Grammar School, NSW, celebrated their teacher aides and education support staff with a delicious morning tea for the whole team. The teacher aides and ES staff were also presented with certificates to show the school’s appreciation for all their hard work and the positive impact the aides and support staff have on not only the students but also their families and teachers.
New Hope Christian School, NSW, celebrated the incredible contributions of their team of teacher aides and support staff by hosting two delightful morning teas filled with baked goodies, fresh fruit, and delicious treats. The teacher aides’ hard work truly makes a positive impact on the lives of students, families, and teachers alike.
Newington Primary School, VIC, celebrated their education support team with a delightful morning tea featuring scones topped with jam and cream, along with indulgent chocolate brownies! To add a special touch, personalised gifts of chocolates, mugs or keyrings were given to the staff. In collaboration with teachers, students created drawings of all the amazing staff who support them with their learning.
We were thrilled to receive an unexpected entry from a teacher aide training college in this year’s competition! The dedicated students from Northern Beaches and Mosman Community College, NSW, have been nominated for their hard work and commitment to becoming teacher aides. This passionate group of 21 students is eager to make a positive impact in the lives of school students. It’s inspiring to hear about their progress and dedication. Keep up the fantastic work, everyone! Your efforts are truly commendable!
Each of the teacher aides at Nunawading Christian College, VIC, were acknowledged as an important part of the team and, with gratitude, were described as the backbone of the school. Each staff member received a personalised drinking cup, a chocolate frog tucked inside, and a coffee voucher to enjoy. The teachers all contributed to a delicious selection of dishes for everyone to share.
Oatlands District High School, TAS, showed appreciation for the teaching assistants from both the senior and the primary side of the school by hosting not one, but two morning teas – one for each group of TAs. Every single teacher assistant was also given a personalised mug and gifts as well as messages of thanks from the students and wider school community.
The 2024 Australian Teacher Aide Team of the Year, Ocean Reef Senior High School, WA, is already known for doing an amazing job in supporting the students’ learning and wellbeing but their school has once again shown great commitment to appreciating the work of this team by surprising them with lovely gifts, cards and treats to say an extra special thank you.
In honour of Teacher Aide Appreciation Week, the Senior School hospitality students of Pacific Coast Christian School, NSW, organised a memorable lunch to recognise the invaluable contributions of teacher aides and support staff. The students put in tremendous effort, transforming the space with beautifully set tables, taking orders, and serving a delightful menu. The event highlighted the gratitude felt for the dedication of teacher aides, whose hard work behind the scenes empowers both students and teachers.
Students at Penrith Anglican College, NSW, took the opportunity to express their heartfelt appreciation for their teacher aides. They shared their reflections on what it means to have these dedicated individuals by their side and highlighted the significant ways in which teacher aides support and enhance their educational experiences. The celebration extended beyond the students, as teachers also joined in to offer their gratitude, recognising the invaluable contributions of the teacher aides and their crucial role in fostering a supportive and effective learning environment
The school learning support officers (SLSO) of Shoalhaven River College, NSW, are proud to be part of a team in an independent school that ‘does things differently’. One of the standout aspects of the school is the way the SLSOs work as a team and feel they are more a group of friends than just colleagues. This collaboration creates a positive environment for both staff and students, making everyday fulfilling.
The LSO office at St Anne's College, VIC, may be cozy and a bit cramped, but the limited space does nothing to diminish the warmth and enthusiasm of the LSO team. Despite the office's small size, the team's big hearts and radiant smiles shine through. They are deeply committed to enriching school life, eagerly diving into every aspect of the school's activities. Whether it’s themed days, special events, or daily interactions, the LSO team’s wholehearted participation and boundless energy make a significant impact, demonstrating their dedication and passion for their roles.
St Joseph's Nudgee College, QLD, hosted a beautiful morning tea that brought together the Junior and Secondary Teacher Aides, creating a rare opportunity to reflect on their shared efforts and help to solidify a sense of unity among the aides. Teachers took the time to express their gratitude for the teacher aides' support in the smooth functioning of the classrooms. Heartfelt letters also came from students, particularly those in the Writers’ Circle program. Their handwritten notes contained appreciation for the aides' assistance in their learning journeys but also the profound impact these aides have on their lives. The celebration also featured profiles of the Teacher Aides, showcasing the diverse experiences, strengths, and passions that each team member brings to the school.
The Teacher Aides at Tullawong State High School, QLD, began their day on a high note, discovering bags of chocolates and a heartfelt thank you note in their pigeonholes. After years without recognition, the acknowledgment of their hard work was truly appreciated. Many of the teacher aides are pursuing teaching to further support special needs students, inspired by the school's strong Inclusion faculty and supportive leadership. They cherish the bonds formed with students and each other, making their roles rewarding.
The teacher aide team at Varsity College, QLD, was recognised with a special celebration of their hard work and dedication. They were presented with certificates acknowledging their outstanding contributions and were also treated to a selection of thoughtful gifts and delicious cake. This gesture of appreciation highlighted the school's gratitude for the teacher aides' tireless efforts and the positive impact they have on the educational environment.
During Australian Teacher Aide Appreciation Week, the staff at Woodleigh School, VIC, organised a heartfelt celebration for their outstanding Learning Assistants. A dedicated Padlet allowed teachers to share their messages of appreciation, which were printed and prominently displayed in the Aides' office. To further honour their contributions, a professional learning day was arranged on a topic chosen by the Aides, fostering their growth and collaboration. Each Learning Assistant received a personalised thank-you gift bag filled with chocolates, a grow-your-own sunflower kit, and a heartfelt card, symbolising the sunshine they bring to the team. The festivities continued with a delicious morning tea featuring homemade cupcakes. Their invaluable support was also recognised by the leadership team during the weekly staff briefing, emphasising the school's gratitude for their hard work.
