The recipients of the University of Newcastle's Vice-Chancellor's School Teacher Awards for 2006 are:
Deborah Falconer - Head teacher, Creative and Performing Arts, Cessnock High.
Deborah Falconer was nominated by Stacey Ward, who is graduating with a Bachelor Arts/Bachelor of Teaching (Primary).
Stacey's nomination said Deborah displays confidence and enthusiasm in her teaching and captures the attention of students immediately. She goes out of her way to assist all students, is supportive, and makes a real difference to her students' self-esteem.
According to Stacey, Deborah is inspirational, enthusiastic, determined and exciting to be with, and is also a favourite of other teachers.
Ian Atkinson - Head Teacher of Mathematics, Cessnock High.
Ian Atkinson was nominated by Melinda Hawthorn, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering (Environment Engineering).
Melinda nominated Ian for his dedication and understanding of students' needs, saying he always focuses on whether students understand what he is saying, as opposed to simply what he is required to teach in the syllabus.
Melinda said his openness while teaching makes students feel comfortable in asking questions, therefore developing their respect. Ian gives his students the confidence to believe that can do anything they set their mind to.
Marilynne Gledhill - English Teacher, Whitebridge High
Marilynne Gledhill was nominated by Kate Drew, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Laws/Diploma of Legal Practice.
According to Kate, Marilynne is a no-nonsense, down to earth teacher with a strong teaching style and dry sense of humour. She listens to student suggestions on interesting ways to learn, and implements them in her class.
She makes learning enjoyable for her students and knows how to push them to reach their potential. Kate describes Marilynne as a beautiful person with a passion for learning.
For interviews with Professor McConkey and/or award recipients, please contact Blythe Hamilton, Media and Public Relations.
