2025 Women of Achievement Award finalists announced

Five outstanding female employees have been recognised for their significant contribution to public education in Western Australia.

The Director General’s Women of Achievement Award finalists were announced today, and inspiring women from a range of education roles were celebrated.

Yanchep Rise Primary School’s Helen Demiris, Sevenoaks Senior College’s Dr Jennet Hansen, Willetton Senior High School’s Kylie Coten, Margaret River Senior High School’s Wendy Coffey and the Department’s Vicki Delves, were named finalists.

The winner will be announced at the International Women’s Day breakfast on Thursday 6 March where special guest speaker Turia Pitt will share her inspiring story of triumph over adversity.

Here’s more information about the finalists:

Helen Demiris – Yanchep Rise Primary School Principal

Helen was nominated for her dedication to creating a supportive and connected school community.

As the principal of Yanchep Rise Primary School, she is deeply respected for her passion, compassion and innovative approaches.

Helen is committed to empowering staff and fostering a collaborative environment.

She has campaigned for improved safety and community connection through establishing the Yanchep Hub and introducing the Berry Street Education Model to support the emotional wellbeing of students.

Dr Jennet Hansen – Sevenoaks Senior College Polly Farmer Foundation Follow the Dream Coordinator

Jennet was nominated for her commitment to improving educational outcomes for Aboriginal students.

Jennet has been the coordinator of the Polly Farmer Foundation Follow the Dream program at Sevenoaks Senior College for the past 20 years.

In her role, she has fostered a culturally respectful and supportive learning environment which has had a profound impact on students, families, and the community.

Kylie Coten – Willetton Senior High School Teacher Library Services

Kylie’s enthusiasm for promoting literacy and supporting diverse learners led to her nomination.

As a library services teacher, Kylie has transformed the school’s library services and created a culture of reading and inclusion.

Kylie has promoted reading as a key to equity and enjoyment. She has also created resources for culturally and linguistically diverse students and supported LGBTIQA+ students.

Vicki Delves – System Response and Transformation Principal Education Officer

Vicki was recognised for her commitment to improving educational outcomes, particularly in high-need areas.

As a principal education officer in the Department’s System Response Transformation team, Vicki has implemented a multi-tiered approach to program delivery, ensuring universal access and targeted interventions.

She has led the development of various educational programs, addressed workforce challenges and led critical COVID-19 responses.

Wendy Coffey – Margaret River Senior High School Student Support Officer

Wendy’s dedication to student wellbeing and community engagement led to her award nomination.

Through her roles as student support officer, year-level coordinator and cadet leader, Wendy has a profound impact on students and the wider community.

Wendy believes education is not limited to academic achievement and provides students with opportunities to develop their personal growth, community involvement and essential life skills.

Ticket sales for the International Women's Day 2025 breakfast, with special guest speaker Turia Pitt, are now closed.