Local educators honoured for community impact

St Clare’s student Isobel Hll receives her Exceptional Young Person Award.

An unwavering commitment to affecting positive change has earned St Clare’s student Isobel Hill an Exceptional Young Person Award in the ACT Children’s Week Awards.

The Year 10 student said her involvement with inclusive education at the college had made her realise that some students faced daily hardship due to things outside their control.

“This made me realise my purpose,” she said.

“I plan to become an inclusive education teacher and continue to make school a more accepting place for students. The teachers at my school constantly remind me of the positive effect one person can have on someone’s life.”

Isobel assists with the St Clare’s Life Skills program, helps the community through the Mission Ministry team and recently contributed to the Lake Tuggeranong Lions Club formalwear program.

Principal Dr Ann Cleary said Isobel was a remarkable source of inspiration for those around her.

“She demonstrates personal resilience and maturity well beyond her years and consistently provides compassion and support to peers, ensuring that every individual feels valued and empowered,” she said.

“It brings us immense joy to see Isobel gain recognition on a larger scale. She consistently exemplifies the belief that true progress stems from uplifting and supporting everyone, regardless of their background or challenges.”

CECG Assistant Director Dr Tony Bracken, Sacred Heart classroom support Katherine Wills and volunteer Anne McNicol

Catholic school staff were also recognised in the awards, with Sacred Heart Primary School Classroom Support Katherine Wills receiving a Community for Children Award; Sacred Heart volunteer and retired teacher Anne McNicol receiving an Exceptional STEM Volunteer Award; and St Monica’s Primary School teacher Laura Frogley receiving a Significant Support Award.

Katherine, who established the Little Hearts playgroup at the school, said she was passionate about supporting children and young families.

“I was thinking about school readiness and how we can help these children be more ready for school while showcasing the fantastic school we have,” she said.

“We moved here 20 years ago, and I know how lonely it was as a new mum in Canberra. Canberra is such a transient population, and we have new people coming and going all the time. Playgroup is a way of connecting people. It is good to establish community – for our children, for our families, for our school.”Sacred Heart principal David Austin said Katherine was tireless in her mission to create a welcoming and nurturing play space.

Sacred Heart classroom support Katherine Wills and principal David Austin

“She connects playgroup families with the wider school community and ensures a rich and varied program that supports young people and their families,” he said.

“The success of Little Hearts Playgroup is a testament to the outstanding contribution Katherine has made to young people in the community.”

David said volunteer Anne’s contributions to the school had also made a lasting impact on the lives of many young people.

“Her dedication to fostering a passion for maths and equipping our teachers with critical skills to assist children struggling with mathematical concepts and extend those who quickly understand these concepts is truly commendable and deserving of this prestigious award.,” he said.

“Both Katherine and Anne have made a substantial impact in the learning journeys of both staff and students and enriched our entire community through their generosity and dedication.”