Darren Baldwin

Sandy Strait State School

Darren Baldwin has consistently gone out of his way to engage with students who cannot afford to participate in typical sporting programs, regularly coming into school early to train less fortunate kids in swimming, cross country, and athletics.
 
The physical education teacher from Sandy Strait State School is using sport as a powerful tool in laying the foundations for a healthy lifestyle amongst his students, and particularly in those with behavioural difficulties and physical disabilities.

​“Students are always enthusiastic and engaged when spending class time, lunchtimes, and training times with Darren. All students, regardless of age or ability, will tell you that ‘Mr B is the Best’,” colleague Wendy Mason said. 

Recognising that cost is often a key barrier to a healthy lifestyle, Darren has implemented low-cost programs such as the ‘Active Kids’ program to help increase the activity of the school’s students in their everyday education.
 
Darren is also working with fellow physical education teachers in the North Coast region to improve physical activity in schools. He has facilitated professional development for physical education teachers and led the region’s annual physical education teachers’ conference.
 
With an involvement in Hervey Bay, Wide Bay and Queensland school sport that spans over 20 years, he has coached and convened various sports at all skill levels.

He currently serves on the Board of Wide Bay School Sport, and is responsible for facilitating sport for all state, catholic, and independent schools in his region.
 
Congratulations Darren on your nomination.
 
By Claudia Farhart.