FEATURED WINNER

Larrakeyah Primary School

“I had a picture of a house, and the house was Premiere Mortgage Centre”

Kerri Reed, Premiere Mortgage Centre

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WINNER: Best Use of Technology

www.larrakeyahprimary.com.au

Hume Anglican Grammar

fathma.mauger@education.nt.gov.au

08 8981 3211

3 Packard Street, Larrakeyah, Darwin NT 0820

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WINNER: Best Use of Technology

Larrakeyah Primary School

@stmichaelsgrammarschool

Leadership

Danielle Collins

Head of Primary

1188 Whakue St, Rotorua Central, Rotorua

Leadership

As Principal, it is a great privilege to lead such a vibrant community, built on the relationships and principles of a loving Christian family. We proudly embrace the 42-year Marist history at the college, integrating their values into daily life, especially through our pastoral care and wellbeing programs. These uphold the ideals of Saint Marcellin Champagnat, reminding us that “To raise children properly, we should love them and love them equally”. My goal is to be personally invested in every student’s success and to foster a support network between students, families and dedicated staff in a spirit of partnership and mutual support.

Principal

Allison Elcoate

@TDSLaw

Pathways to excellence through innovation Larrakeyah Primary’s dual wins at the Australian Education Awards highlight how innovation, community and technology are transforming teaching and learning in Darwin. At Larrakeyah Primary School in Darwin, ‘Pathways to Excellence’ is not just a philosophy – it’s a permanent fixture of teaching and learning. In August this year, the school’s laser focus on innovation and high standards was recognised on a national stage, winning both Primary School of the Year – Government and Best Use of Technology at the 2025 Australian Education Awards. With a student body of more than 500 – half of whom have English as a second language, 20% are from Defence families, and 3% are Aboriginal – Larrakeyah is no stranger to complexity. Yet under the leadership of Principal Fathma Mauger, the school has transformed those challenges into opportunities for innovation. Indeed, its reputation as a high-performing, future-focused school has made it a beacon for educators in Australia and abroad. Turning vision into innovation One of the school’s standout achievements is the success of Larrakeyah IntelliLearn, a custom-built AI tool that scaffolds students’ writing skills without providing them with ready-made answers. Unlike generic platforms, IntelliLearn was designed around the expectations of the Australian Curriculum, incorporating teacher input and student samples into its framework. The aim was never to replace teachers but to give them an extra tool that empowers every learner. By providing real-time feedback and prompting students to reflect more deeply on their writing, IntelliLearn has lifted engagement and allowed teachers to focus their energy where it’s needed most. Evidence of impact The results of the program speak for themselves. In 2024, Year 6 students showed considerable improvements in narrative writing from the beginning to the end of the semester. Student surveys revealed that 92% felt IntelliLearn kept them on task, while more than three-quarters believed it improved their writing skills. Perhaps most significantly, the school has seen a marked reduction in reluctant writers as students take greater ownership of their writing, asking more questions, building confidence and developing their own voice. Building trust through collaboration Importantly, the IntelliLearn initiative was not a top-down directive but a team effort. After Fathma Mauger and senior staff attended an AI in Education conference, they consulted widely – holding workshops, testing prototypes in small classes and inviting feedback from teachers, students and parents. This process ensured buy-in from the very beginning. Fathma and her team listened closely to what worked and what didn’t, ensuring that the school could move from an upload-only format to an interactive writing pane that students use today. A culture of excellence Larrakeyah’s success with technology is just one part of a broader culture of excellence. Visible Learning frameworks guide teaching, collaborative planning empowers staff, and partnerships with schools in Singapore, Malaysia and China enrich professional learning. The result is consistent student growth, with the school outperforming national benchmarks in NAPLAN and receiving Outstanding ratings across all nine domains in its ACER school review. As Larrakeyah continues to push boundaries in 2025, its message moving forward is unmistakable: educational excellence is not a destination but a carefully prepared pathway – one paved with shared purpose, an unwavering focus on innovation and a strong sense of community.

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.

Fathma Mauger graduated from Charles Darwin University with a Master of Education (Honours) and also holds a Graduate Diploma in Public Sector Executive Management. She has worked in the Northern Territory education system for 39 years and has served as a principal for 15 years. Fathma is currently the Principal of Larrakeyah Primary School in Darwin and has a strong interest in school improvement and innovation. She is an accredited ACER NT Lead Reviewer and was awarded NT Principal of the Year in 2021. Fathma was a finalist for Principal of the Year (Government) at the Australian Education Awards in 2022, 2024 and 2025. She was selected for The Educator’s Hot List in 2022 and named one of The Educator’s Most Influential Educators in 2023. Fathma has also been an invited speaker at several international events and conferences.

Principal

Fathma Mauger

Joe Wright

Principal

Joe Wright is the fifth principal of Fraser Coast Anglican College and was appointed in 2018. Joe’s career has seen him work in different state and Anglican schools. He has previously been nominated for a National Excellence in Teaching Award. Joe introduced the college’s ‘Edge’ program, which won the ACEL Educational Futures Award in 2017. He has also been published in a range of educational journals. Joe treasures the relationships the staff have with their students and families and the vibrant college community and believes these relationships make the college a great school.

Principal

Joe Wright

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.

Danni Mattiazzo brings over a decade of experience in Northern Territory primary education, working across all year levels with deep curriculum expertise. She embraces change to enhance student outcomes and excels in collaborating with teachers to design engaging learning experiences. Recognised as NT Leader in Education (Darwin, 2021), Danni was a finalist in the Australian Education Awards (2022–25). She was also named in The Educator’s Hot List (2022) and featured in CIO Outlook Magazine (2024). Danni is an AITSL Lead Teacher who has presented on international platforms, showcasing her commitment to educational innovation and excellence.

Assistant Principal

Danni Mattiazzo

Nikki Robertson is a CPA with 25 years of experience. The majority of Nikki’s career has been in management accounting in the energy industry, in both Brisbane and the Surat Basin, with just a dash of tax accounting to add flavour. Her roles in the Surat Basin enabled her to develop skills in safety management, contract management and civil projects management. These skills have proven very useful in her role as Business Manager, particularly in overseeing the construction of the $10 million multipurpose centre at FCAC. She is passionate about her work at the college and believes building genuine connections with people in all areas of life is the key to happiness and success.

Business Manager

Nikki Robertson

Business Manager

Nikki Robertson

Fathma Mauger

Principal

Allison Elcoate

Principal

Danielle Collins

Head of Primary

Juliane Hallam

Head of Secondary

Danni Mattiazzo

Assistant Principal

Bradley King

Assistant Principal

Bradley King is a highly motivated and adaptable leader with over 10 years of experience in educational, operational and strategic leadership within high-performing schools. Known for his innovative and goal-driven approach, he applies strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to lead effectively in dynamic environments. Passionate about continuous school improvement, Bradley is committed to mentoring others, fostering professional growth and driving positive change. He thrives in fast-paced settings and leads by example, with a focus on collaboration, innovation and achieving excellence in education.

Assistant Principal

Bradley King

Kate Frewin has over 20 years’ experience in education. Since joining St Margaret’s in 2020, she has played an active role in enhancing teaching and learning across the primary school. Kate brings to her work a strong understanding of curriculum, pedagogy and contemporary learning practices, and is passionate about creating flexible, engaging learning opportunities that empower girls to develop the knowledge, skills, mindset and agency to thrive in our changing world.

Assistant Head of Primary – Curriculum

Kate Frewin

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

Ashleigh Church

Senior Teacher

George Mamouzellos

Senior Teacher

Riley France

Senior Teacher

Riley France is an experienced educator who has been teaching for nine years across diverse school environments in the Northern Territory. As Senior Teacher and Data Leader at Larrakeyah Primary School, he provides strategic leadership in the design and implementation of data walls and supports staff in interpreting and applying student data to drive measurable improvements in learning outcomes. Known for his collaborative approach and instructional leadership, Riley promotes professional growth, high expectations and the consistent use of evidence-based practice. Passionate about advancing both student achievement and teacher capability, he is committed to leading continuous school improvement.

Senior Teacher

Riley France

George Mamouzellos is a Darwin-born educator with six years of experience teaching in the Northern Territory. As a Senior Teacher and Innovation Leader at Larrakeyah Primary School, he has driven improvement in maths, wellbeing and the integration of AI in education. George has led whole-school initiatives, including STEAM Days, the QUEST program and community engagement events. He is passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences and supporting both staff and students through innovation and inclusion. A finalist in the Apple for the Teacher awards, George continues to champion student voice, digital transformation and future-focused education across his school community.

Senior Teacher

George Mamouzellos

For Childhood Senior Teacher Ashleigh Church, Larrakeyah Primary School holds a special place in her heart, and she considers it an honour to contribute to its continued success. Ashleigh is passionate about early childhood education, building strong partnerships with families and supporting children’s wellbeing. She is committed to embedding the perspectives of First Nations people in authentic and respectful ways – they also deeply value the rich cultural and linguistic diversity within the school. Ashleigh feels privileged to lead and grow in such a vibrant, inclusive and supportive environment.

Senior Teacher

Ashleigh Church

Bradley King

Assistant Principal

Danni Mattiazzo

Assistant Principal

Fathma Mauger

Principal

Danni Mattiazzo

Assistant Principal

Fathma Mauger

Principal

Ashleigh Church

Senior Teacher

Bradley King

Assistant Principal

Bradley King

Senior Teacher

Ashleigh Church

Senior Teacher

George Mamouzellos

Assistant Principal

Bradley King

Senior Teacher

Ashleigh Church

Senior Teacher

George Mamouzellos