Annie Yang named Goodstart’s Teacher of the Year

Annie Yang from Goodstart Early Learning Ringwood was named as the 2024 Teacher of the Year in last year’s Goodies Awards, an annual celebration of excellence for the provider. 

Ms Yang was recognised for her passion, creativity, and tireless commitment to the children at Ringwood, with whom she shares learning and laughter drawing on her more than eight years of experience in early childhood education and advanced degrees in the field.

Her consistent demonstration of dedication to creating meaningful learning experiences was also a highlight for the judging panel, who took note of the way in which she fosters a nurturing environment where children feel valued and inspired to explore their potential.

“I was inspired to become an early childhood teacher because I believe in the transformative power of the early years to shape a child’s future,” Ms Yang said. 

“These formative years are a unique opportunity to nurture their curiosity, creativity, and resilience while helping them build the confidence to explore their potential.” 

A standout feature of Ms Yang’s teaching philosophy is her ability to build strong partnerships that extend far beyond the classroom. Her initiatives have connected children with their community in a number of ways including:

• Collaborations with Local Primary Schools: Annie’s efforts ensure a smooth transition for preschoolers moving to primary school, setting them up for success in their educational journey.
• Intergenerational Activities: Through partnerships with a local aged care facility, Annie has organised storytelling sessions, arts and crafts, and cultural exchanges, fostering meaningful connections between young children and the elderly.
• Raising Children’s Voices: Annie empowers young learners by teaching them about civic engagement. In collaboration with the Early Learning Association Australia (ELAA) and local MP Nicole Werner, she has helped children raise their voices in parliament, advocating for issues that matter to them.
• Japanese Exchange Program: By facilitating a cultural exchange with a Japanese preschool, Annie brings a global perspective to her classroom. Virtual meet-ups and cultural days have enriched children’s understanding of the world while strengthening family-school connections.

“What truly drives me is the chance to amplify children’s voices – helping them understand that their thoughts, ideas, and concerns matter,” she said. 

“I want to empower them to express themselves, take ownership of their learning, and feel a sense of agency in the world around them. Supporting children in finding their voice and seeing them grow into strong, capable individuals is the most rewarding part of what I do.”

Annie’s achievements

Her work has consistently delivered outstanding outcomes for children, earning Goodstart Ringwood recognition. Ms Yang’s achievements include:

• Leading a Bush Kinder program in collaboration with experts like Louise Dorrat, encouraging environmental stewardship and family engagement.
• Organising a Road Safety Project with interactive workshops and community participation, promoting child safety.
• Achieving the highest rating in Victoria on the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale for her Kinder Room, a testament to her high standards in education.
• Championing cultural diversity through the Reconciliation Week Song Competition, which celebrated unity and inclusivity.

“My journey at Goodstart has been truly transformative,” Ms Yang shared. 

“Being part of such a supportive and collaborative community has deepened my understanding of the importance of relationships -whether with children, families, or colleagues. These relationships are the foundation for meaningful learning and growth.”

She credits Goodstart’s strong focus on professional learning as being instrumental in supporting her to continuously refine her practice. 

“Through the QRS program, I’ve embraced the philosophy that the environment is a ‘third teacher,’ where thoughtful design and purposeful interactions foster children’s curiosity, independence, and love of learning,” she explained.

“Most importantly, my time at Goodstart has strengthened my commitment to empowering children to use their voices, take ownership of their learning spaces, and feel confident in expressing their ideas and concerns. These experiences have shaped my teaching philosophy of nurturing confident, capable young citizens who understand their value and the impact they can have in the world.”

Annie’s leadership and vision extends beyond her work with children

Ms Yang is not only a role model to her students but also an inspiration to her colleagues and families. She engages parents through initiatives like Family Information Nights, offering insights into teaching practices and fostering a strong partnership between home and the service. Her dedication to inclusive education ensures every family feels welcome, valued, and part of a supportive community.

“Winning this award is an incredible honour and a moment of reflection on the work I’ve been fortunate to do with children, families, and colleagues,” she said. “It’s a recognition of the collective effort it takes to make a difference in children’s lives and a reminder of the importance of the work we do every day.”

Following her success she intends to take on new challenges and opportunities. Recently she took on the QRS Champion role, supporting kinder teachers across Victoria North, a role which has allowed her to share knowledge, collaborate with others, and contribute to improving teaching practices across the region.

“I look forward to engaging in further professional development and mentoring others, always striving to make a lasting impact on children and the communities around us,” she said.

Annie Yang, a Goodstart representative said, “exemplifies the best of Goodstart’s vision – to give every child the best possible start in life. Her innovation, leadership, and commitment to excellence make her a shining star within our organisation and a deserving recipient of the Teacher of the Year Award.”

“Congratulations, Annie, on this well-deserved recognition! Your work shows us all the profound impact one teacher can have.”