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.
