Kristine Atkins has been able to build Ascot State School’s outstanding STEAM program by drawing on the respect and leadership earned during her 20-year teaching career and collaborating with the local community.

“Since taking on the lead role of STEAM educator she has been instrumental in the design, development, implementation and evaluation of the school’s STEAM agenda, associated teaching and learning program and the adoption of the Australian Curriculum for Digital and Design Technologies,” Simone Coogan, deputy principal, said.

Kristine has joined forces with an academic from Griffith University to develop the STEAM program.  This collaboration ensures Ascot State School can connect to innovative approaches.

The STEAM program is shared with City Cluster Schools through the Mini Festivals.

“Kristine is a member of the school council and has a strong reputation in our community and has positively enriched the lives of our Ascot students through her school program and extensive engagement in external competitions,” Simone said.
Kristine teaches students from Prep to Year 6 as well as mentoring and coaching teachers in the development of their inquiry and design pedagogies.

By working side-by-side with staff in a quiet and humble style of leadership, Kristine has nurtured a keen group of like-minded educators, known as the STEAM Team, and together they have created the annual STEAM Week, highlighting and investigating the many ways our lives are impacted by STEAM.

“Kristine’s program has the full support of the school council and P&C, both in principle and financially, which has allowed her to develop a resource and staff development plan that allows students and teachers to be interacting with the latest technology,” principal Gayle Coleman said.
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Congratulations Kristine Atkins on your QCT Excellent Leadership in Teaching and Learning Award nomination.