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Yasmine O’Brien named ACT early childhood teacher of the year

Freya Lucas
Nov 06, 2023
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Yasmine O’Brien, an early childhood teacher (ECT) at the O’Connor Cooperative School, has been named as ECT of the Year in the 2023 ACT Public Education Awards.
The awards recognise the outstanding dedication of the ACT’s public education staff and volunteers, and were announced on World Teacher’s Day.“These individuals continue to go above and beyond, ensuring that our children receive a stellar education,” said Territory Minister for Education and Youth Affairs Yvette Berry.
Ms O’Brien received the award for her ability to create a positive, constructive and caring learning environment in her class, and for her commitment to helping each child in her care to succeed by providing a welcoming learning environment that celebrates care, family, diversity, inclusion, children’s voice, creativity and wonder.
Her enthusiasm and encouragement for all students to enjoy and engage positively in their learning has helped increase students’ curiosity, thinking, agency, and a love of learning.
Ms O’Brien was a dual award winner in 2023, also securing the Director-General’s Award for Excellence.
The full list of categories and winners are:
Early Childhood Teacher of The YearYasmine O’Brien, O’Connor Cooperative School
Primary Teachers of the YearLee Hodges, Arawang Primary SchoolTonia Davidson, Wanniassa School
Secondary Teacher of the YearCourtney Bedford, Black Mountain School
School Leader of the YearJennifer Howard, Caroline Chisholm School
New Educator of the YearKaren Walsh, Amaroo School
Education Support Person of the YearNicole Ratcliffe, Weetangera Primary School
School Support Person of the YearJoseph Knezevic, Caroline Chisholm School
Outstanding Partnership of the YearHead Start Pilot Program, Universal School Support
Excellence in Cultural IntegrityBirrigai First Nations Team, Birrigai Outdoor School
Excellence in Diversity and InclusionMita Pota, Gold Creek School
Allied Health Professional of the YearPrudence Sheather, Mount Stromlo High School
Education Support Office Employee of the yearGeorgia Nott Communication, Engagement and Government Support
Excellence in InnovationTeaching and Leadership Team, Bonython Primary School
Volunteer of the yearFelicity Roantree, Red Hill Primary School
Director-General AwardYasmine O’Brien, O’Connor Cooperative School
Learn more about the awards here.


















