Angie Mirfin understands that starting school is a momentous occasion for any young child, particularly one who is anxious or unsure.

More than just a Prep teacher, Angie is dedicated to ensuring that the transition between kindergarten and school is a smooth one, through close collaboration within the community.

“As the parent of a fairly anxious child who has blossomed into a confident and comfortable Preppie with Mrs Mirfin's support, I can appreciate how a strong home, school and community partnership can help families manage this period of adjustment,” says Pip Tyrrell, parent of one of Angie’s pupils.
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Angie strongly believes in personalisation. She works closely with a team of local kindergarten teachers, enabling her to get to know each new learner and provide customised support from the first day of Prep. 

Angie puts into place the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (APST), walking the walk of a lead teacher, making local families feel supported and comfortable about their children starting Prep.

From the very first school visit, Angie graciously welcomes each family into the Prep classroom, taking the time to meet, greet, listen and share her experiences.

Angie believes in consistent and personalised opportunities for parents to engage in children’s learning, and actively demonstrates this philosophy, making families quickly feel as though they are part of a special community.

Angie exemplifies the values of the school as a joyful, respectful, principled teacher who goes the extra mile to help children make sense of the school environment. For example, one of Angie’s special activities is to allow younger children into the classroom alongside their siblings for the end of story time, providing comfort, familiarity and fun.

Angie personifies the vision of the school as she connects and builds relationships with each family, underpinning a positive start to the learning journey and strengthening home and school links. This continues the benefits for the children, who enjoy a smoother transition into new routines and the expectations of school.

Her outstanding collaborative strategies include a weekly newsletter, open-door policy and willingness to touch base before and after school.

She helps families understand the expectations and role of home activities, providing a balanced and open-ended approach, which is appreciated by parents and personalising homework activities to the child.
More broadly, Angie is an approachable and nurturing member of the school community, loved by teachers, parents and students alike.
 
Congratulations Angie on your nomination for the 2018 QCT Outstanding Contribution to School Community Award.