A record number of students are tackling complex Extended Essays (EE) on Mathematics under an inspirational teacher at the Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) this year.
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After completing a PhD that focused on mathematical modelling of chemical processes, Ava Greenwood is using her expertise to successfully mentor students through their real-world individual EE topics, such as machine learning and mathematical biology.

​The passionate Mathematics, Chemistry and EE teacher was also a member of the curriculum writing and delivery team for the inaugural year of the Queensland Virtual STEM Academy – a virtual middle school learning environment for gifted students across the state.

QASMT line manager Kerry Bullock line manager says Ava encourages students to broaden their research toolkit and learn professionally relevant skills including the use of numerical programming languages and mathematical typesetting software. 
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“Ava’s experience with research methodologies and academic writing has helped her to mentor students from a wide range of mathematical abilities through this challenging program,” Kerry says.

Ava is an example to her students that the study of mathematics can be an endeavour in itself, and not just a means to an end. 

Ava has also established a student-led Environmental Club, which is minimising waste at QASMT. It has enabled students to partner with organisations across government, industry and not-for-profit sectors in order to provide unique learning experiences.

Congratulations Ava on your nomination for a QCT Excellence in Beginning to Teach Award.