Early learning services in South Australia recognised in Public Education Awards

Early learning services in South Australia have featured prominently in the 2024 Public Education Awards which were presented at a ceremony on 1 November 2024. 

 

The awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding practice of SA Department for Education staff and their contributions to education, and highlight the winners’ development of learner agency, equity, inclusion, reconciliation and wellbeing.

 

Department for Education Chief Executive Professor Martin Westwell said he firmly believes that the educators in South Australia’s public schools and preschools are “among the best in the country.”

 

“Not only do they help students achieve high levels of excellence in learning, they often go the extra mile to make a huge difference in the lives of children and their families,” he said.

 

“Many of them deserve awards for what they do every day, with the award nominees, finalists and winners giving us a snapshot of this excellence”.

 

“I am proud to lead a system that can boast educators such as the 2024 Public Education Award nominees and winners,” he added. 

 

As well as announcing the winners of the 2024 awards at the gala event, organisers announced that in 2025 there will be a new award category which will recognise a parent or family member who advocates and builds relationships that enhance community engagement and supports learners.

 

Winners are given $10,000 for professional development or to purchase resources for their site, as well as the opportunity to share their expertise and be recognised for their outstanding impact. 

 

Excellence in Learner Agency Award

 

Madge Sexton Kindergarten (Kaurna Country) was a finalist in this category for their project It’s all about Lizzy: celebrating learner agency through an Exhibition of Thinking.

 

At Madge Sexton Kindergarten (MSK), educators have empowered learners by involving them in the creation of Lizzy the Lizard’s Outdoor Resort and other initiatives. 

 

Through hands-on projects like planning Lizzy’s birthday party and the Exhibition of Thinking, children have been encouraged to take ownership of their learning and engage with the community. This approach has positively impacted learners by nurturing their creativity and responsibility.

 

MSK’s work has influenced broader practices through state-wide resources and cross-site collaborations, demonstrating its impact on educational practices beyond the kindergarten. 

 

Engagement with stakeholders, including families and local education teams, has enhanced and supported these learner-driven projects, showcasing effective communication and collaboration.

 

Learn more about the project here. 

 

Inclusive Practices in Education Award

 

Teacher Mykayla Demarco was announced as the winner in this category for her Inclusive Preschool Program which operates in Solomontown Kindergarten (Nukunu Country)

 

Her dedication to inclusive education at Solomontown Kindergarten has had a profound positive impact on learners with disabilities. Her innovative approach, including the introduction of Acknowledgement of Country through song and integration of Aboriginal art, has resulted in remarkable developmental outcomes for children, particularly those with complex communication needs.

 

By fostering strong relationships with external providers and collaborating extensively with colleagues across sites, she has significantly influenced practices and promoted inclusive education within the community. Her inspiring engagement is evident through her proactive efforts to welcome new families and her commitment to making the kindergarten environment accessible and supportive for all learners.

 

Learn more about her work here.

 

Fellow early learning provider Parks Children’s Centre (Kaurna Country) were named as finalists in this category for their work on transforming mainstream education through inclusive practices.

 

Parks Children’s Centre demonstrates excellence in inclusive education by integrating specialised support within mainstream settings. By increasing educator ratios and avoiding 1:1 shadowing, they ensure children with diverse needs learn alongside their peers, benefiting from a normalised and inclusive environment. This approach enhances belonging and wellbeing for all children.

 

The team engages with families and communities to foster early identification and intervention for children with disabilities, providing tailored support and promoting advocacy. Their commitment to continuous professional development and collaboration with other sites demonstrates their dedication to achieving outstanding outcomes for all learners with disabilities.

 

Their innovative approach has influenced practices across the state, seamlessly blending inclusive and mainstream education.

 

Excellence in Leadership Award

 

Preschool Director Gordon Combes, who heads up The Briars Preschool (Kaurna Country), was named as a finalist in this category for transforming site culture through strategic leadership.

 

Mr Combes has cultivated an environment where children, families, and educators thrive. His strategic leadership has transformed site culture, leading to The Briars becoming a site where strengths are celebrated and a focus on continuous improvement is maintained.

 

His implementation of the Marte Meo method has gained international recognition, positioning. The Briars as a leading early learning centre and extending its influence through statewide professional learning.

 

Gordon’s empathetic engagement with families and mentorship of early career leaders highlights his commitment to inclusive education. His participation in the Harvard-Orbis Leadership for School Excellence program further extends his impact and network.

 

Learn more here.

 

To learn more about all finalists and winners and their inspiring contributions to public education in South Australia visit Public Education Awards winners and finalists 2024.