Year 7 Coordinator Margaret Anderson has shown leadership abilities from her very first year of teaching, when her differentiation planning was selected to be shared with other staff at Bray Park State High School (BPSHS).

Her data placemat is currently used as an exemplar for other teachers and she has been praised for her engagement with parents, preferring to ring them, rather than send emails, to build personal connections.

In fewer than three years Margaret has taken on a number of curriculum leadership initiatives, including redesigning BPSHS’s Geography assessment.

She has also co-ordinated the Year 8 Medieval Fayre, which involved local primary schools and the community, coordinated a week-long Year 7 camp, volunteered as a tutor for Junior Secondary English students, been a state manager for a drama production, and she has also been involved in Junior Secondary socials and NAPLAN BBQ breakfasts.

Her deep engagement with students and exceptional teaching practice has seen all of her Modern History students achieve an A-C in English in Term 1 this year, and 93% achieve an A-C in Year 7 English.

BPSHS Principal Kirsten Ferdinands says Margaret is an exceptional beginning teacher who has made a significant impact on both students and the entire school community “through her exceptional teaching and leadership practices”.

Kirsten says Margaret’s work also contributed to BPSHS winning a Regional Showcase Award for ‘State School of the Year’ last year.

Congratulations Margaret on your QCT Excellence in Beginning to Teach Award nomination.