Principal Julie Bettenay with teacher Erica Graca and physical education|specialist Nathanael Howard .
Camera IconPrincipal Julie Bettenay with teacher Erica Graca and physical education|specialist Nathanael Howard . Credit: Supplied/Marcus Whisson

In the top of their class

Anne Gartner, Guardian ExpressEastern Reporter

School principal Julie Bettenay was one of five finalists named in the Primary Principal category after her staff nominated her for the award.

‘My nomination was created by a large group of staff, who met regularly to discuss the many aspects of my leadership role and what I had implemented in the last five years,’ Mrs Bettenay said.

‘The school has achieved so much and it was so rewarding for these achievements to have been acknowledged and recognised by so many.’

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Mrs Bettenay said the school was leading the way in sustainability science, performing arts, literacy and numeracy, making it a successful Independent Public School.

Year 6 teacher Erica Graca was named a finalist in the Primary Teacher of the Year category.

After 22 years at the school, Mrs Graca was nominated by Mrs Bettenay for her leadership.

‘She is a model for students and other teachers and is always innovative and willing to try new projects such as the iPad trial she is involved in at the moment,’ Mrs Bettenay said.

Mrs Graca said she had been working for 35 years as a teacher and was honoured to be named a finalist.

Physical education teacher Nathanael Howard has been shortlisted for the beginning teacher award, a category open to recently graduated teachers. Mr Howard, who was again nominated by Mrs Bettenay, said it was nice to receive recognition for his work and leadership around the school.

Having graduated three years ago, Mr Howard has stepped up as an acting principal and takes on many leadership roles.

Mrs Bettenay said it was absolutely phenomenal to have three teachers from one school named as finalists.

‘It is significant because it shows how well the school is achieving,’ she said.

Award winners will be announced on December 2.