University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor's School Teacher Award
Did you have an inspirational school teacher?
Almost all of us have a memory of at least one high school teacher who has made a big impact on how we see the world. It may be someone who made history come alive, algebra fascinating, or science the key to understanding life, the universe and everything. It’s not often that we get the chance to say "thank you" to those remarkable individuals. The University of Newcastle introduced the Vice-Chancellor’s School Teacher award in 2007 to recognise the important contribution that school teachers make to our lives, and to our educational choices at school and beyond.
In December each year, students who expect to graduate the following year are invited to nominate a high school teacher who has had a lasting and profound impact on their education experiences. Nomination is an easy process that involves completing a form and providing a 500 word statement about the teacher.
The nominations are considered by an awards panel that consists of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic); two other members of the University; a member of the Executive Committee of Convocation; three High School Principals; and three students of the University. Recipients are awarded $5,000 and their School receives $2,000. Recipients are presented with their award at the same graduation ceremony as the student who nominated them receives their testamur.
Nominations for the 2013 Vice-Chancellor’s School Teacher Award are now closed.
Recipients 2013
Mr Peter West, Maitland Grossmann High School
Nominated by Mr Matthew Brown
Mr Peter West has been teaching Legal Studies, Business Studies and Geography for 15 years. His knowledge, communication skills, consideration and empathy have been exemplary, making him a highly regarded and well respected teacher amongst his colleagues and students. His teaching is underpinned by a firm belief that the key to academic success is the capacity to understand and synthesise knowledge, building critical thinking and perseverance. Mr West is fair and approachable. He has the ability to establish genuine and positive relationships with students. The strategies he has developed reflect enthusiasm, accessibility, attention to students needs, innovative assessment, conscientious feedback and the continued interaction and communication with students. In doing so he consistently meets students' needs, raising their enthusiasm and enhancing their achievement.
Dr Kylie McIntyre, Central Coast Grammar School
Nominated by Ms Jane Goodwin
Dr Kylie McIntyre epitomises all that is characteristic in an outstanding teacher and staff member. Kylie has outstanding rapport with students, parents and other staff alike. She is a highly skilled classroom teacher who during her career has not only been very popular with students, but has been able to assist them to achieve at very high levels academically within her subject area of expertise. More recently Kylie has been School Psychologist at Central Coast Grammar School, a role which she carries out with enormous sensitivity and good judgement. Her recent studies undertaken in her PhD have lifted her professional confidence and competence to the highest level. She is a very worthy recipient of a Vice Chancellors School Teacher Award for 2013.
Mr David Clarke, St Clare's High School
Nominated by Mr Cameron Green
Mr David Clarke teaches Economics, Commerce and Japanese at St Clare's High School. Mr Clarke is a truly passionate and inspirational teacher. He is a kind, gifted and caring man, selflessly giving his time during and after school hours. He consistently sets the highest standards for himself and his students, filling his classes with passion and energy. The students in his care are constantly challenged to see and understand the world holistically and they always find his lessons challenging, motivating and deeply engaging. Mr Clarke delivers quality teaching, and is fully committed to developing the whole person and the interconnectedness of all their studies, encouraging students to question and explore. David Clarke is a teacher who makes a difference.