- Published:
- Monday 23 July 2018
Hundreds of Victorian teachers were recognised yesterday for their long-serving dedication to students and families at the Recognition of Service to Victorian Education awards.
Minister for Education James Merlino congratulated just under 400 staff being honoured for 40, 45, 50 and 55 years of service to education at the awards, the majority of whom were teachers.
Those honoured included Dandenong High School art, craft and woodwork teacher Noel Chapple, who with 55 years’ experience as a teacher was one of the longest-serving recipients recognised.
Other recipients included:
- Helen Snookes-Miller, who has been Principal of Reservoir Primary School for the past 27 years, and attended the same school herself prior to becoming a teacher. Helen was recognised for 50 years of service
- Married couple Maree and Shane Frisby who both received awards for 40 years of service. They met at teachers’ college in the mid-1970s
- Colin MacLeod-Smith, who was also recognised for 40 years of service, having started his career at Seymour College as an art teacher and rising to Head of Art Faculty at the college.
Combined, the 398 total recipients have devoted more than 17,000 years to teaching, led progress and embraced opportunities to help young people thrive.
The Andrews Labor Government’s Education State is making sure all students are supported by capable educators, so they can stay in school and learn the skills they need for the future.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino
“From blackboard, to whiteboard, to smartboard, these recipients have inspired curiosity and helped students thrive over many decades.”
“Whether they worked in front of a classroom or in an office supporting schools, everyone recognised in the Recognition of Service to Victorian Education awards has helped deliver a great education to thousands of Victorian kids.”