FEATURED winner
Hunter Sports
High School
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winner:
AFL Schools Secondary School
of the Year - Government
winner:
AFL Schools Secondary School
of the Year - Government
hunterspt-h.schools.nsw.gov.au
Ruyton Girls' School
hunterspt-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au
4943 5755
2 Pacific Highway, Gateshead, NSW, 2290
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winner:
AFL Schools Secondary School
of the Year - Government
Hunter Sports
High School
Rachel Byrne
Principal
Born in Sydney, I have a background in physical education and sports management. After earning a Bachelor of Education from the University of Canberra, I worked in Catholic education and later in London as a supply teacher and cricket player. Returning to Sydney, I transitioned to Head Teacher Wellbeing and earned a Graduate Diploma in Sports Management. Moving to Newcastle in 2010, I held various roles, including a Student Wellbeing corporate consultancy role, before becoming Deputy Principal and then Principal at Hunter Sports High School.
At HSHS I have led significant innovations and received the NSW Department of Education Secretary’s Award for Service in 2020. My leadership has been recognised for its innovation and impact on student outcomes and wellbeing.
Principal
Rachel Byrne
facebook.com/huntersportshs
@ruytongirlsschool
Rachel Byrne
Principal
Leadership
After completing a Bachelor of Teaching and a Bachelor of PD/H/PE, I began my teaching career in Aberdeen in the Hunter Valley. I completed a Master’s in Education (Mathematics) in 2003 and a year teaching Mathematics in London, then I took on the role of Head of Mathematics at Lakes Grammar on the Central Coast. In 2005 a role at HSHS was advertised, enabling me to balance my passion for both Mathematics and PD/H/PE.
I have been teaching at HSHS since 2005, initially as a Mathematics teacher and then as the Head Teacher of Mathematics. In 2019, I moved into the role of Deputy Principal/Instructional Leader with a focus on student growth in reading and numeracy. With a strong focus on data to identify and target areas for improvement, HSHS’s reading and numeracy results steadily improved over the next five years. HSHS has benefited from the addition of an instructional leader role to support the school executive and staff in achieving the goals in the school plan.
Through supporting staff professional learning, Enrichment Academy classes and High Potential Gifted students, I have reinforced a high-expectations approach to ensure students at HSHS can reach their potential.
DP – Instructional Leader
Wendy Beckett
Wendy Beckett
DP – Instructional Leader
DP – Instructional Leader
Wendy Beckett
Wendy Beckett
DP – Instructional Leader
1188 Whakue St, Rotorua Central, Rotorua
Wendy Beckett
DP – Instructional Leader
Leadership
After completing a Bachelor of Teaching and a Bachelor of PD/H/PE, I began my teaching career in Aberdeen in the Hunter Valley. I completed a Master’s in Education (Mathematics) in 2003 and a year teaching Mathematics in London, then I took on the role of Head of Mathematics at Lakes Grammar on the Central Coast. In 2005 a role at HSHS was advertised, enabling me to balance my passion for both Mathematics and PD/H/PE.
I have been teaching at HSHS since 2005, initially as a Mathematics teacher and then as the Head Teacher of Mathematics. In 2019, I moved into the role of Deputy Principal/Instructional Leader with a focus on student growth in reading and numeracy. With a strong focus on data to identify and target areas for improvement, HSHS’s reading and numeracy results steadily improved over the next five years. HSHS has benefited from the addition of an instructional leader role to support the school executive and staff in achieving the goals in the school plan.
Through supporting staff professional learning, Enrichment Academy classes and High Potential Gifted students, I have reinforced a high-expectations approach to ensure students at HSHS can reach their potential.
DP – Instructional Leader
Wendy Beckett
Born in Newcastle, I completed my degree in Design and Technology and Special Education, earning a scholarship for my studies in Special Education. My teaching career began at Mudgee High School, where I worked with students with mild intellectual disabilities.
Over the years, I have gained experience across primary, high school and SSP (School for Specific Purpose) settings. In 2003, I spent a year in Japan teaching English to adults while exploring the country. Since then, my diverse roles have included managing Intensive Support Services for Community Services, working in corporate as an Out of Home Care Coordinator, as a Head Teacher of Special Education, and currently I am the Deputy Principal of Inclusion and Support at Hunter Sports High School.
DP – Inclusion and Support
Melinda Workman
Born in Sydney, I have a background in physical education and sports management. After earning a Bachelor of Education from the University of Canberra, I worked in Catholic education and later in London as a supply teacher and cricket player. Returning to Sydney, I transitioned to Head Teacher Wellbeing and earned a Graduate Diploma in Sports Management. Moving to Newcastle in 2010, I held various roles, including a Student Wellbeing corporate consultancy role, before becoming Deputy Principal and then Principal at Hunter Sports High School.
At HSHS I have led significant innovations and received the NSW Department of Education Secretary’s Award for Service in 2020. My leadership has been recognised for its innovation and impact on student outcomes and wellbeing.
Principal
Rachel Byrne
Born in Sydney, I have a background in physical education and sports management. After earning a Bachelor of Education from the University of Canberra, I worked in Catholic education and later in London as a supply teacher and cricket player. Returning to Sydney, I transitioned to Head Teacher Wellbeing and earned a Graduate Diploma in Sports Management. Moving to Newcastle in 2010, I held various roles, including a Student Wellbeing corporate consultancy role, before becoming Deputy Principal and then Principal at Hunter Sports High School.
At HSHS I have led significant innovations and received the NSW Department of Education Secretary’s Award for Service in 2020. My leadership has been recognised for its innovation and impact on student outcomes and wellbeing.
Principal
Rachel Byrne
@TDSLaw
Rachel Byrne
Principal
After completing a Bachelor of Teaching and a Bachelor of PD/H/PE, I began my teaching career in Aberdeen in the Hunter Valley. I completed a Master’s in Education (Mathematics) in 2003 and a year teaching Mathematics in London, then I took on the role of Head of Mathematics at Lakes Grammar on the Central Coast. In 2005 a role at HSHS was advertised, enabling me to balance my passion for both Mathematics and PD/H/PE.
I have been teaching at HSHS since 2005, initially as a Mathematics teacher and then as the Head Teacher of Mathematics. In 2019, I moved into the role of Deputy Principal/Instructional Leader with a focus on student growth in reading and numeracy. With a strong focus on data to identify and target areas for improvement, HSHS’s reading and numeracy results steadily improved over the next five years. HSHS has benefited from the addition of an instructional leader role to support the school executive and staff in achieving the goals in the school plan.
Through supporting staff professional learning, Enrichment Academy classes and High Potential Gifted students, I have reinforced a high-expectations approach to ensure students at HSHS can reach their potential.
In August, Hunter Sports High School (HSHS) in Lake Macquarie, NSW, was recognised on the national stage when it took out the awards for Secondary School of the Year – Government, and Australian School of the Year. The awards were presented at the Australian Education Awards 2024, held at The Star Event Centre in Sydney in front of nearly 800 attendees.
At the heart of the school’s success, says Principal Rachel Byrne, is its innovative approach to personalised student learning pathways.
“We put the kids at the heart of every decision we make, so all the programs that we run, and all the teaching and learning, is absolutely around personalising the learning for our students, to make sure they’re the best they can be,” Byrne tells The Educator.
Central to the school’s ethos is its focus on tailoring education to meet the individual needs of all students, fostering both academic achievement and student wellbeing.
The school, which operates on a semi-selective model, serves a diverse cohort, with 60% of students enrolled in selective sporting programs and 40% coming from the local area.
Indeed, HSHS faces the unique challenge of being situated in a low socioeconomic area, with an ICSEA score of 938 and nearly half its students in the lowest socio-educational-advantage quartile.
Despite these challenges, the school has experienced a surge in enrolment, a testament to its growing reputation, says Byrne.
“A key driver behind this reputational change has been our Academies, which are a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing student engagement through deep, authentic learning experiences,” Byrne says.
First introduced in 2012 with the ‘Big Picture’ model, these Academies have now expanded to include 19 advisories offering pathways that move beyond traditional HSC subjects and towards further education and employment.
The impact of HSHS’s efforts was highlighted during a visit in 2023 from renowned educator Professor Pasi Sahlberg, who recognised the school as a national leader in addressing learner disengagement. Professor Sahlberg commended the school’s focus on student voice and agency, calling it “an inspiring model for inclusive education”.
But HSHS’s achievements extend far beyond praise.
In 2023, the school earned a place on The Educator’s 5-Star Innovative Schools list, and Byrne was recognised on the national Edleaders Impact List. The school has also been endorsed as an Olympic Pathway School by the Australian Olympic Committee and is part of the Melbourne University New Metrics Partnership, which aims to rethink assessment and reporting.
The school’s academic success is equally impressive. HSHS has dramatically improved its NAPLAN performance, now ranking in the top 10% for value-added results, a significant leap from the bottom 10% in 2016. In 2022, the school achieved its highest results in the top two NAPLAN bands for numeracy and reading, as well as the best HSC outcomes in a decade. Moreover, the school’s suspension rates have dropped by an astounding 91% since 2013.
Speaking to The Educator after accepting her awards, Byrne said a crucial factor in the school’s success has been the support of her staff and the broader community who make the HSHS what it is today.
“I’ve got wonderful staff that have supported me, and a wonderful, supportive community who have always believed in what we do in terms of being innovative, doing what’s right for our kids and preparing them for the complex world that they’ll enter once they leave school.”
The Lakes College Culinary Club (TLCCC) started with a team of 12 students and has now expanded to over 30 members, showcasing its continued success through participation in college events and even catering for local community organisations. This program not only imparts valuable culinary skills but also teaches the significance of community service, fosters practical abilities and cultivates a professional work ethic.
Spanning ages 11 to 18, the Culinary Club challenges students to create elaborate six-course degustation dinners and manage large-scale catering for college gatherings. Chloe, a Year 7 student, praises the program for imparting essential life skills in an enjoyable way among friends. Likewise, Emily values the connections she forms despite the program’s demanding pace.
Under the guidance of Chef Joel, TLCCC contributes to the college’s ethos and the students’ personal growth. The program’s commitment to local ingredients and culinary adventures is evident as it expands to include barista training and Responsible Service of Alcohol certification. The program seamlessly merges science, art and food technology, promoting discipline and shared responsibility. TLCCC embodies a commitment to service, community engagement and student leadership, cementing its unique character and contribution to The Lakes College.
The Lakes College Culinary Club (TLCCC) started with a team of 12 students and has now expanded to over 30 members, showcasing its continued success through participation in college events and even catering for local community organisations. This program not only imparts valuable culinary skills but also teaches the significance of community service, fosters practical abilities and cultivates a professional work ethic.
Spanning ages 11 to 18, the Culinary Club challenges students to create elaborate six-course degustation dinners and manage large-scale catering for college gatherings. Chloe, a Year 7 student, praises the program for imparting essential life skills in an enjoyable way among friends. Likewise, Emily values the connections she forms despite the program’s demanding pace.
Under the guidance of Chef Joel, TLCCC contributes to the college’s ethos and the students’ personal growth. The program’s commitment to local ingredients and culinary adventures is evident as it expands to include barista training and Responsible Service of Alcohol certification. The program seamlessly merges science, art and food technology, promoting discipline and shared responsibility. TLCCC embodies a commitment to service, community engagement and student leadership, cementing its unique character and contribution to The Lakes College.
As an independent, forward-thinking girls’ school we are committed to preparing girls for a lifetime of learning, leadership and engagement in our global community. We believe in girls.
At Ruyton Girls’ School we foster the individuality of each girl in a caring and safe environment, nurturing her intellectual, physical, social and emotional qualities that are essential to flourish.
Powerful learning is central to the Ruyton culture, building on our strong academic reputation. We focus on advancing the learning of every girl through the engagement of intellectual curiosity, building their knowledge and skills about how to learn, and supporting them to achieve their personal best and be exemplary citizens. We believe in real-world learning beyond the classroom, collaborating with the wider community to promote growth, discovery and sustainability.
We empower our girls to lead lives of purpose with courage, character and compassion. Through the development of values and action-focused learning they are inspired to pursue equity and justice for self and others. By embracing diversity and raising their voices, our girls effect positive change and make a difference.
Melinda Workman
DP – Inclusion and Support
Born in Newcastle, I completed my degree in Design and Technology and Special Education, earning a scholarship for my studies in Special Education. My teaching career began at Mudgee High School, where I worked with students with mild intellectual disabilities.
Over the years, I have gained experience across primary, high school and SSP (School for Specific Purpose) settings. In 2003, I spent a year in Japan teaching English to adults while exploring the country. Since then, my diverse roles have included managing Intensive Support Services for Community Services, working in corporate as an Out of Home Care Coordinator, as a Head Teacher of Special Education, and currently I am the Deputy Principal of Inclusion and Support at Hunter Sports High School.
DP – Inclusion and Support
Melinda Workman
Melinda Workman
DP – Inclusion and Support
Born in Newcastle, I completed my degree in Design and Technology and Special Education, earning a scholarship for my studies in Special Education. My teaching career began at Mudgee High School, where I worked with students with mild intellectual disabilities.
Over the years, I have gained experience across primary, high school and SSP (School for Specific Purpose) settings. In 2003, I spent a year in Japan teaching English to adults while exploring the country. Since then, my diverse roles have included managing Intensive Support Services for Community Services, working in corporate as an Out of Home Care Coordinator, as a Head Teacher of Special Education, and currently I am the Deputy Principal of Inclusion and Support at Hunter Sports High School.
DP – Inclusion and Support
Melinda Workman
Bellbird Park State Secondary College (BPSSC) prides itself on providing an innovative and inclusive education experience for all learners. Our college is extraordinary because of the incredible students, parents, community partners and staff who bring it to life each day. Since opening in 2017 with 212 Year 7 students and 31 staff, the school has been on a rapid journey of student growth and staff recruitment. BPSSC now has an enrolment of 1,800 students and 150+ staff members. Located in the aspirational, multiculturally rich Ipswich community (ICSEA 953), we’re exceptionally proud to be the school of choice in our community.
At BPSSC, we’re committed to supporting the success and wellbeing of every student as they transition through each stage of learning through our high-expectations, high-support approach. In 2023, 175 First Nations students are connected and thriving at our college. Our Many Pathways, No Limits mantra extends to all students, and we provide tailored differentiated, culturally appropriate educational opportunities for our First Nations students. Our approach to First Nations education is extensive, multifaceted and a whole-school effort effecting positive systematic change and outcomes for our students.
Bellbird Park State Secondary College (BPSSC) prides itself on providing an innovative and inclusive education experience for all learners. Our college is extraordinary because of the incredible students, parents, community partners and staff who bring it to life each day. Since opening in 2017 with 212 Year 7 students and 31 staff, the school has been on a rapid journey of student growth and staff recruitment. BPSSC now has an enrolment of 1,800 students and 150+ staff members. Located in the aspirational, multiculturally rich Ipswich community (ICSEA 953), we’re exceptionally proud to be the school of choice in our community.
At BPSSC, we’re committed to supporting the success and wellbeing of every student as they transition through each stage of learning through our high-expectations, high-support approach. In 2023, 175 First Nations students are connected and thriving at our college. Our Many Pathways, No Limits mantra extends to all students, and we provide tailored differentiated, culturally appropriate educational opportunities for our First Nations students. Our approach to First Nations education is extensive, multifaceted and a whole-school effort effecting positive systematic change and outcomes for our students.
I graduated as an English teacher from Newcastle University with a Bachelor of Social Science (Recreation and Tourism) and a Diploma of Education in 2003. I began my career at Condobolin High School, which inspired my moral purpose of ensuring equity in education. I returned to Newcastle in 2009 to take up a position at Kotara High School. This role afforded me the opportunity to relieve for extended periods as Head Teacher Teaching and Learning. In this role I began to consider how we could do school differently, with a focus on the holistic development of young people.
I secured the role of Head Teacher Teaching and Learning at Kurri Kurri High School in 2016 and began the journey of creating Learning Hubs focused on integrating the curriculum to support students to see the connections between school and the real world. I am currently the relieving Deputy Principal at Hunter Sports High School where I am working collaboratively with the senior executive team to ensure that all students have a personalised pathway aligned to their goals and values.
(Relieving DP – Innovative Pathways)
Lisa Scobie
I graduated as an English teacher from Newcastle University with a Bachelor of Social Science (Recreation and Tourism) and a Diploma of Education in 2003. I began my career at Condobolin High School, which inspired my moral purpose of ensuring equity in education. I returned to Newcastle in 2009 to take up a position at Kotara High School. This role afforded me the opportunity to relieve for extended periods as Head Teacher Teaching and Learning. In this role I began to consider how we could do school differently, with a focus on the holistic development of young people.
I secured the role of Head Teacher Teaching and Learning at Kurri Kurri High School in 2016 and began the journey of creating Learning Hubs focused on integrating the curriculum to support students to see the connections between school and the real world. I am currently the relieving Deputy Principal at Hunter Sports High School where I am working collaboratively with the senior executive team to ensure that all students have a personalised pathway aligned to their goals and values.
(Relieving DP – Innovative Pathways)
Lisa Scobie
Lisa Scobie
(Relieving DP – Innovative Pathways)
Melinda Workman
DP – Inclusion and Support
I graduated as an English teacher from Newcastle University with a Bachelor of Social Science (Recreation and Tourism) and a Diploma of Education in 2003. I began my career at Condobolin High School, which inspired my moral purpose of ensuring equity in education. I returned to Newcastle in 2009 to take up a position at Kotara High School. This role afforded me the opportunity to relieve for extended periods as Head Teacher Teaching and Learning. In this role I began to consider how we could do school differently, with a focus on the holistic development of young people.
I secured the role of Head Teacher Teaching and Learning at Kurri Kurri High School in 2016 and began the journey of creating Learning Hubs focused on integrating the curriculum to support students to see the connections between school and the real world. I am currently the relieving Deputy Principal at Hunter Sports High School where I am working collaboratively with the senior executive team to ensure that all students have a personalised pathway aligned to their goals and values.
(Relieving DP – Innovative Pathways)
Lisa Scobie
Lisa Scobie
(Relieving DP – Innovative Pathways)
Nicholas Davies
Deputy Principal
Robert Jovanovski
Deputy Principal
I graduated from Newcastle University with a Bachelor of Education (Social Science) and began my teaching career in 1995 at West Wyalong High School. It was there that I learnt the importance of the learning community to the success of students. Building relationships with staff, students, parents and the wider community can provide learning experiences that are meaningful and lasting for students – making real-life connections to learning. I returned to Newcastle in 2000, taking on the role of Head Teacher at Morisset High School, before moving to Newcastle High School.
In 2018, I was appointed Relieving Deputy Principal at Hunter Sports High School and became permanent in 2019. I worked collaboratively to design and implement the ‘Hunter Sports Way’, which established clear expectations for students and staff. I continue to work with our learning community to provide opportunities for students to achieve their desired pathways.
Deputy Principal
Nicholas Davies
As the Deputy Principal of Hunter Sports High School, I bring 30 years of dedicated service within the Department of Education. My journey in education began after my parents immigrated from Europe to Australia in the 1960s, seeking a better life. Despite having no formal education themselves, they were extremely proud when I became the first in my family to graduate with a Bachelor of Education in Science.
Over the course of my career, I have held a variety of roles that have deeply influenced my educational philosophy and dedication to student achievement. Before my current position, I served as Deputy Principal at Mount View High School and Rutherford High School. In 2023, I was proud to receive the Education Leadership Award during Education Week at Hunter Sports High School. I am particularly dedicated to Aboriginal education and have spearheaded initiatives that led to our school being named one of the top 10 in the state for the delivery of Personalised Learning Pathways. My commitment to education also extends beyond the classroom, as demonstrated by my two life memberships of different sporting associations.
Deputy Principal
Robert Jovanovski
Nicholas Davies
Deputy Principal
Robert Jovanovski
Deputy Principal
Lisa Scobie
(Relieving DP – Innovative Pathways)
I graduated from Newcastle University with a Bachelor of Education (Social Science) and began my teaching career in 1995 at West Wyalong High School. It was there that I learnt the importance of the learning community to the success of students. Building relationships with staff, students, parents and the wider community can provide learning experiences that are meaningful and lasting for students – making real-life connections to learning. I returned to Newcastle in 2000, taking on the role of Head Teacher at Morisset High School, before moving to Newcastle High School.
In 2018, I was appointed Relieving Deputy Principal at Hunter Sports High School and became permanent in 2019. I worked collaboratively to design and implement the ‘Hunter Sports Way’, which established clear expectations for students and staff. I continue to work with our learning community to provide opportunities for students to achieve their desired pathways.
Deputy Principal
Nicholas Davies
As the Deputy Principal of Hunter Sports High School, I bring 30 years of dedicated service within the Department of Education. My journey in education began after my parents immigrated from Europe to Australia in the 1960s, seeking a better life. Despite having no formal education themselves, they were extremely proud when I became the first in my family to graduate with a Bachelor of Education in Science.
Over the course of my career, I have held a variety of roles that have deeply influenced my educational philosophy and dedication to student achievement. Before my current position, I served as Deputy Principal at Mount View High School and Rutherford High School. In 2023, I was proud to receive the Education Leadership Award during Education Week at Hunter Sports High School. I am particularly dedicated to Aboriginal education and have spearheaded initiatives that led to our school being named one of the top 10 in the state for the delivery of Personalised Learning Pathways. My commitment to education also extends beyond the classroom, as demonstrated by my two life memberships of different sporting associations.
Deputy Principal
Robert Jovanovski
Nicholas Davies
Deputy Principal
Robert Jovanovski
Deputy Principal
I graduated from Newcastle University with a Bachelor of Education (Social Science) and began my teaching career in 1995 at West Wyalong High School. It was there that I learnt the importance of the learning community to the success of students. Building relationships with staff, students, parents and the wider community can provide learning experiences that are meaningful and lasting for students – making real-life connections to learning. I returned to Newcastle in 2000, taking on the role of Head Teacher at Morisset High School, before moving to Newcastle High School.
In 2018, I was appointed Relieving Deputy Principal at Hunter Sports High School and became permanent in 2019. I worked collaboratively to design and implement the ‘Hunter Sports Way’, which established clear expectations for students and staff. I continue to work with our learning community to provide opportunities for students to achieve their desired pathways.
Deputy Principal
Nicholas Davies
As the Deputy Principal of Hunter Sports High School, I bring 30 years of dedicated service within the Department of Education. My journey in education began after my parents immigrated from Europe to Australia in the 1960s, seeking a better life. Despite having no formal education themselves, they were extremely proud when I became the first in my family to graduate with a Bachelor of Education in Science.
Over the course of my career, I have held a variety of roles that have deeply influenced my educational philosophy and dedication to student achievement. Before my current position, I served as Deputy Principal at Mount View High School and Rutherford High School. In 2023, I was proud to receive the Education Leadership Award during Education Week at Hunter Sports High School. I am particularly dedicated to Aboriginal education and have spearheaded initiatives that led to our school being named one of the top 10 in the state for the delivery of Personalised Learning Pathways. My commitment to education also extends beyond the classroom, as demonstrated by my two life memberships of different sporting associations.
Deputy Principal
Robert Jovanovski