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

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 Year

Yasmine O’Brien, O’Connor Cooperative School

 

Primary Teachers of the Year

Lee Hodges, Arawang Primary School
Tonia Davidson, Wanniassa School

 

Secondary Teacher of the Year

Courtney Bedford, Black Mountain School

 

School Leader of the Year

Jennifer Howard, Caroline Chisholm School

 

New Educator of the Year

Karen Walsh, Amaroo School

 

Education Support Person of the Year

Nicole Ratcliffe, Weetangera Primary School

 

School Support Person of the Year

Joseph Knezevic, Caroline Chisholm School

 

Outstanding Partnership of the Year

Head Start Pilot Program, Universal School Support

 

Excellence in Cultural Integrity

Birrigai First Nations Team, Birrigai Outdoor School

 

Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion

Mita Pota, Gold Creek School

 

Allied Health Professional of the Year

Prudence Sheather, Mount Stromlo High School

 

Education Support Office Employee of the year

Georgia Nott Communication, Engagement and Government Support

 

Excellence in Innovation

Teaching and Leadership Team, Bonython Primary School

 

Volunteer of the year

Felicity Roantree, Red Hill Primary School

 

Director-General Award

Yasmine O’Brien, O’Connor Cooperative School

 

Learn more about the awards here.