Student's learnings had lasting impact on award finalist

A principal education officer committed to driving change in the public education system has been recognised in the Department’s 2025 Women of Achievement Award.

Vicki Delves, from the System Response and Transformation team, was announced as a finalist in the award that celebrates outstanding female employees for their significant contributions to public education in Western Australia.

One of five finalists, Ms Delves was nominated for her commitment to improving educational outcomes, particularly in high-need areas.  

She has implemented a multi-tiered approach to program delivery, ensuring universal access and targeted interventions.  

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

As a former public education student herself, Ms Delves was inspired by her teachers and said she understood the power of education.  

“I went to a public school and my fondest memories are of some of the most amazing teachers that influenced the way I think and the things I do,” she said. 

“I wanted to be a PE teacher from my first day in high school at Tuart Hill Senior High School because I had PE teachers who cared and were incredible role models.  

“They wanted everyone to be the best that they could be, to feel included and most of all they ensured that they fostered an environment where curiosity and enthusiasm for learning thrived.  

“The lessons were always fun, motivating and ignited the love of learning and to explore new ideas.  

“The culture they created has stayed with me forever. For me, I am so thankful for the teachers that I had and the teachers that I taught with.” 

Ms Delves said she felt proud of the work she does to improve the lives of WA young people. 

“I feel so honoured and proud to be a part of the Department of Education and to do things that I think are important to connect with young people and make their time at school a positive experience,” she said.  

“Everybody deserves to be seen and valued and feel that their needs matter. 

“Education is important as it is the thing that can give direction, purpose, change the trajectory of a child and always comes from a place of care about what is best for the student. 

“I wake up every day and want to make every interaction and thing I do count, that it has a purpose and is meaningful and comes from a place of care. 

“My parents were not teachers and didn’t go to university but highly valued education. They taught me the value of education and actually all my siblings became teachers in public education in the areas of kindergarten, science, and health and physical education.” 

Ms Delves said she was in disbelief when she found out she was a finalist for the award.  

“It didn’t quite feel real when the Deputy Director General Student Achievement phoned me to tell me I was a finalist. I heard the words, but couldn’t quite connect that it was me she was referring to,” she said.  

“I said to her that I just feel like an ordinary person doing things that I care about and that is always to value, care and respect all students and their families. 

“I feel like being a finalist in this award is representing all the people in the various schools, branches and regions that I have been lucky enough to work and learn with along the way. 

“All of our work is important, and it always takes a team working together to do the best work.” 

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

Meet all five finalists. Their stories can be found on our website¹.