Teachers practice yoga and have lunchtime sport competitions against students at Bray Park State High School thanks to an early career teacher who has been praised for her work both inside and outside the classroom.

Combining research-based practices and data mapping, Junior Secondary Mathematics and Science teacher Mikaela Anich was able to help the percentage of students achieving an A to C in her classes increase to above 90 by the end of last year.

This year she is also the school’s Sports Coordinator.

Bray Park State High School (BPSHS) Mathematics Head of Department Chris Powell says Mikaela is an exceptional practitioner who caters to the needs of her students by embedding highly contexualised, engaging and differentiated learning experiences in her classes.
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Mikaela also leads the moderation of all Year 7 assessment.

“She is constantly striving to build 21st century skills such as collaboration, communication, critical thinking and character through the New Pedagogies for Deep Learning (NPDL) framework,” Chris says.

“She effectively uses Essential Skills for Classroom Management to maintain a calm and inviting classroom, as well as Circle Time activities to make learning fun.”

The fun extends to lunchtime sporting competitions for students, including a staff versus student netball match.
Chris says Mikaela, who also teaches HPE, is highly regarded by her colleagues, students and parents at the school.

BPSHS principal Kirsten Ferdinands says Mikaela is an outstanding beginning teacher who continues to strive for excellence in all that she does.

​“The community of Bray Park State High School is extremely proud of her work and the fantastic teacher that she has become,” Kirsten says.

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