FEATURED WINNER
Murrumbidgee Regional High School - Griffith
“I had a picture of a house, and the house was Premiere Mortgage Centre”
Kerri Reed,
Premiere Mortgage Centre
Read on
Share
Read on
Share
winner:
Street Science Best STEM ProgramNon-Government
mrhsgriffith-h.schools.nsw.gov.au
linkedin.com/company/mrhs-griffith
murrumbidgeegriffith-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au
02 6966 9600
88 Coolah Street, Griffith NSW 2680
Read on
winner:
Street Science Best STEM Program
Murrumbidgee Regional High School - Griffith
Duncan Lovelock
Principal – Murrumbidgee Regional High School
facebook.com/TrinityCollegeBeenleighQld
@ruytongirlsschool
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
Murrumbidgee Regional High School – Griffith (MRHS – Griffith) is a proud regional public school that has become a national leader in STEM education. Serving around 600 students – including 19% who identify as Indigenous and more than a third from non-English-speaking backgrounds – the school has built a culture that celebrates diversity, resilience and aspiration. This inclusive foundation drives its award-winning STEM programs, ensuring every learner, regardless of background or location, has access to world-class opportunities.
At the heart of this success is the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence (MASE), a hub that has transformed how regional schools engage with science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Since its launch in 2019, MASE has supported not only MRHS – Griffith students but also partner primary schools as well as neighbouring central and high schools across New South Wales. Its programs spark curiosity, raise aspirations and connect students from rural communities to opportunities often only available in metropolitan centres.
A standout initiative is the NSW Virtual STEM Academy (NSWVSA), founded and hosted by MRHS – Griffith. What began in 2021 with just eight students has now grown into a statewide program reaching thousands of learners from primary, central and secondary schools across regional, rural and remote New South Wales. By 2025, the academy is projected to connect students from more than 80 schools, offering a wide range of online enrichment courses spanning Indigenous Seasons, computational thinking, coding in block, Python and C++, electronics and mechatronics, chemistry, physics, scientific inquiry, digital design, biomedical engineering, data science and engineering. This pioneering model breaks down geographic barriers, allowing students from even the most remote locations to collaborate in real time on authentic STEM challenges with peers and mentors across the state. Flagship programs give students extraordinary opportunities to apply their learning. In the ExoLab program, students conduct experiments alongside astronauts aboard the International Space Station, bringing space science directly into the classroom.
The school also hosts major regional competitions such as the FIRST LEGO League, the Science and Engineering Challenge and the Aeronautical Velocity Challenge, with record numbers of students participating each year. These experiences fuel passion, teamwork and confidence, inspiring many students to pursue further STEM pathways.
Equity is embedded in every initiative. Programs such as Deadly STEMers provide culturally relevant opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, while the Women in STEM program and the Orbispace Initiative encourage female participation in STEM, aerospace and emerging technologies. These targeted supports ensure that groups historically underrepresented in STEM are given pathways to thrive and lead.
MRHS – Griffith also connects students to the future through strong industry partnerships with local, national and global organisations. From agtech and renewable energy to space exploration and digital innovation, students regularly engage with experts who provide mentoring, real-world insights and authentic contexts for their projects.
The school’s investment in state-of-the-art facilities further enhances learning. A dedicated STEM centre houses advanced technologies such as 3D printers, CAD/CAM design stations, laser engravers and augmented reality welding equipment. Students have access to professional broadcast studios, a podcasting suite and a STEM lending library that shares resources across the community. These facilities provide hands-on experience with the tools used in modern industries.
Crucially, MRHS – Griffith’s commitment extends to its teachers. Through MASE, staff receive continuous professional development in robotics, coding, digital technologies and inquiry-based pedagogies. Teachers embed explicit teaching practices across STEM disciplines, ensuring students build strong foundational knowledge before applying higher-order skills to complex challenges. This blend of explicit instruction with hands-on inquiry ensures learning is structured, accessible and highly engaging. Educators from across the region join professional learning workshops, building a collaborative network that strengthens STEM education well beyond the school itself. The impact is clear: student participation in STEM has surged, enrolments in advanced courses have grown, and confidence in tackling real-world challenges has never been higher.
MRHS – Griffith has proven that with vision, collaboration and community, a regional school can lead the nation in STEM education. By winning the 2025 Australian Education Award for Best STEM Program, MRHS – Griffith has set a new benchmark for equity, innovation and excellence. Most importantly, it has shown what is possible when every student is given the opportunity to dream big and achieve beyond expectation.
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.
With over 10 years of experience as a principal, Duncan Lovelock is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities in regional and rural New South Wales. Currently, he leads Murrumbidgee Regional High School – Griffith, which is renowned for excellence in STEM education through the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence and the NSW Virtual STEM Academy. Duncan focuses on building positive relationships and leading with collaboration, equity and inclusion to help all students reach their full potential. His leadership emphasises evidence-based teaching, professional learning communities, STEM innovation, community partnerships and strategic governance to ensure continuous improvement, sustainable growth and educational excellence.
Principal – Murrumbidgee Regional High School
Duncan Lovelock
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.
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.
Ian Preston is an award-winning educator with over 30 years of experience teaching in rural and regional New South Wales. Based at Murrumbidgee Regional High School – Griffith, he serves as Deputy Principal of the NSW Virtual STEM Academy (NSWVSA) and leads the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence (MASE). Ian founded both NSWVSA and MASE, which now engage thousands of students across the state. A Global Teacher Prize Top 50 finalist and recipient of the NSW Premier’s Prize for Innovation in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) Teaching, as well as the Commonwealth Bank Teaching Award and an Honorary Fellowship of the Teachers’ Guild of NSW, he champions equity and future-focused learning.
Deputy Principal – NSW Virtual STEM Academy
Ian Preston
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
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
Allison Elcoate
Principal
Allison Elcoate
Principal
Ian Preston
Deputy Principal – NSW Virtual STEM Academy
Allison Stewart
Head Teacher – Aboriginal Learning and Engagement Centre
Scott Sleap
NSW DoE, STEM Enrichment Coordinator
Danielle Collins
Head of Primary
Juliane Hallam
Head of Secondary
A proud Gulidjan woman living and working in Wiradjuri Country, Allison Stewart is the Head Teacher of the Aboriginal Learning and Engagement Centre at Murrumbidgee Regional High School. With 28 years of teaching experience across primary and secondary schools, Allison has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the retention and educational outcomes of First Nations students while celebrating and preserving cultural identity. She has established cultural programs across the Griffith community of schools and embedded First Nations perspectives across the curriculum. Recognised with a Department Certificate and a Certificate of Recognition for her dedication to Aboriginal Education, Allison has been a driving force behind the award-winning Deadly STEMers program.
Head Teacher – Aboriginal Learning and Engagement Centre
Allison Stewart
Professor Scott Sleap is a nationally recognised STEM education leader at the NSW Department of Education, where he leads the STEM Enrichment team. He is also Professor of Practice – STEM at the University of Sydney. A Winston Churchill Fellow and recipient of the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching, Scott has driven innovative initiatives that build teacher capability and inspire students in future-focused learning. Through his leadership, strategic partnerships with industry, universities and government have flourished, creating authentic STEM opportunities for young people. His work champions equity, innovation and excellence in STEM education across Australia.
NSW DoE, STEM Enrichment Coordinator
Scott Sleap
Joe Wright
Principal
Ian Preston is an award-winning educator with over 30 years of experience teaching in rural and regional New South Wales. Based at Murrumbidgee Regional High School – Griffith, he serves as Deputy Principal of the NSW Virtual STEM Academy (NSWVSA) and leads the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence (MASE). Ian founded both NSWVSA and MASE, which now engage thousands of students across the state. A Global Teacher Prize Top 50 finalist and recipient of the NSW Premier’s Prize for Innovation in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) Teaching, as well as the Commonwealth Bank Teaching Award and an Honorary Fellowship of the Teachers’ Guild of NSW, he champions equity and future-focused learning.
Deputy Principal – NSW Virtual STEM Academy
Ian Preston
With over 10 years of experience as a principal, Duncan Lovelock is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities in regional and rural New South Wales. Currently, he leads Murrumbidgee Regional High School – Griffith, which is renowned for excellence in STEM education through the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence and the NSW Virtual STEM Academy. Duncan focuses on building positive relationships and leading with collaboration, equity and inclusion to help all students reach their full potential. His leadership emphasises evidence-based teaching, professional learning communities, STEM innovation, community partnerships and strategic governance to ensure continuous improvement, sustainable growth and educational excellence.
Principal – Murrumbidgee Regional High School
Duncan Lovelock
Ian Preston
Deputy Principal – NSW Virtual STEM Academy
Duncan Lovelock
Principal – Murrumbidgee Regional High School
Ian Preston is an award-winning educator with over 30 years of experience teaching in rural and regional New South Wales. Based at Murrumbidgee Regional High School – Griffith, he serves as Deputy Principal of the NSW Virtual STEM Academy (NSWVSA) and leads the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence (MASE). Ian founded both NSWVSA and MASE, which now engage thousands of students across the state. A Global Teacher Prize Top 50 finalist and recipient of the NSW Premier’s Prize for Innovation in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) Teaching, as well as the Commonwealth Bank Teaching Award and an Honorary Fellowship of the Teachers’ Guild of NSW, he champions equity and future-focused learning.
Deputy Principal – NSW Virtual STEM Academy
Ian Preston
With over 10 years of experience as a principal, Duncan Lovelock is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities in regional and rural New South Wales. Currently, he leads Murrumbidgee Regional High School – Griffith, which is renowned for excellence in STEM education through the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence and the NSW Virtual STEM Academy. Duncan focuses on building positive relationships and leading with collaboration, equity and inclusion to help all students reach their full potential. His leadership emphasises evidence-based teaching, professional learning communities, STEM innovation, community partnerships and strategic governance to ensure continuous improvement, sustainable growth and educational excellence.
Principal – Murrumbidgee Regional High School
Duncan Lovelock