EXCELLENCE AWARDEE: Best Use of Technology

St Michael’s Grammar School

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At St Michael’s, technology is not an end in itself but a purposeful tool for learning, connection and care. Guided by its Teaching, Learning and Caring framework, the school moved from a device-led strategy to a learning-led approach, ensuring technology empowers creativity, collaboration and safety. In 2024, St Michael’s was recognised as a Microsoft Lighthouse School – one of only 22 schools nationwide – for its innovative use of Surface technology. Its 1:1 Surface Pro program for students in Years 7–9 and Surface Laptop rollout for staff have enabled equitable, secure access and transformed the learning environment through co-design with students. St Michael’s takes a measured, student-centred approach to emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. Students and teachers work side by side to explore effective, ethical applications of AI, from custom-built robotics to AI-powered chatbot prototypes. This proactive engagement has positioned St Michael’s students as contributors to national conversations, with Year 12 leaders presenting on AI in education at a recent conference. Technology at St Michael’s is always underpinned by wellbeing and inclusion, ensuring its students are prepared to not only navigate but shape the digital future as confident, creative citizens.

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.

Matt Heinrich is Director of Learning Technologies and ICT at St Michael’s Grammar School, leading the purposeful integration of digital tools to enhance teaching, learning and caring. Holding a Bachelor of Education (Primary), a Master of Education (Information Technologies) and a Certificate in School Management and Leadership from Harvard Business School Online, Matt combines educational expertise with strong leadership skills. Central to St Michael’s recognition as a Microsoft Lighthouse School, he has driven innovation in device strategy, digital safety and AI. Guided by empathy, his leadership ensures technology empowers learners and prepares them as thoughtful, future-ready citizens.

Director of Learning Technologies and ICT

Matt Heinrich

Naomi White joined Hume Anglican Grammar in 2025 as Director of Student Wellbeing. A devoted educator in the field of pastoral care, she has held roles including Head of Student Wellbeing Programs (P–12) and House Coordinator at Westbourne Grammar, and Digital Wellbeing Project Leader at Mentone Grammar. Prior to working in education, Naomi’s diverse background included positions in IT, the performing arts and the health and wellbeing sector. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Teaching (Secondary) from the University of Melbourne, where she is also currently completing a Master of Adolescent Health and Wellbeing.

Director of Student Wellbeing

Naomi White

Matt Heinrich

Director of Learning Technologies and ICT

Naomi White

Director of Student Wellbeing

Penelope Monger

Deputy Principal

Penelope Monger has been Deputy Principal at Hume since 2021, following her role as Assistant Principal – Secondary from 2019. With a background in media and communications, she transitioned to teaching in 2010, spending nine years at Gippsland Grammar, including seven as Head of English. Believing in holistic education, Penelope champions student wellbeing, a collaborative, excellence-driven learning culture and strong collegial relationships. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Swinburne University), a Bachelor of Broadcasting (Edith Cowan University), a Diploma of Education (University of Melbourne), a Graduate Diploma in Library and Information Management (Charles Sturt University) and a Master of Educational Leadership (University of Newcastle).

Deputy Principal

Penelope Monger