Excellence in teaching and learning (primary) award 2023

Brabham Primary School, excellence in teaching and learning (primary)

Since opening in 2021, the vision for Brabham Primary School has been to become a thriving learning community in the heart of Brabham.

Associate Principal, Anthony Chiappalone, says they have already been recognised by the local and education community for their success in supporting children to thrive and showcase their talents.

“The school's success can be attributed to the exceptional educators who have high expectations for student learning and who put student achievement, engagement and well-being at the centre of everything they do,” he said.

“Staff, student, and parent consultation informed the school’s core values of respect, excellence, inclusion and responsibility.

“These are the foundation on which the school has built a culture of positive learning and high expectations.”

The school has continued to embrace its ‘student voice’ in various ways. Its student council used surveys to involve students in decision-making for things such as a new playground design and extra-curricular programs.

Students from different year levels have also led initiatives, ranging in a focus on sustainability, to finding more active ways to get to and from school.

All staff participate in professional learning to align with the school’s successful instructional teaching model. This is underpinned by holistic and responsive student services, including a dedicated approach to identify and support at-risk students.

An internal coaching program offers mentoring, opportunities to practice new strategies, in-class observation and feedback.

Anthony says the program emphasises continuous improvement.

“Our teachers are engaged and motivated by the coaching process,” he said. “They feel valued and supported through these coaching cycles.

“The program also brings a wealth of knowledge and experience together in a consistent, whole-school approach.”

School staff have a focus on providing students with rich learning experiences. This is demonstrated by its Auslan, science and technology and early childhood education programs.

Teachers have also fostered a vibrant arts culture, recognising the role music and dance play in uniting people. They have harnessed community engagement to plan events and initiatives like Culture Fest – an annual celebration of the many different cultures in the Brabham community.

They also worked closely with its Indigenous students, the school community and Aboriginal advisors to enter a piece in the Wakakirri National Dance Festival.

Brabham Primary School received the Spirit of Wakakirri Award and the State Reconciliation Award in recognition of its efforts, as well as being one of only 2 primary schools in the state to be shortlisted for the national finals.

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The award recognises primary schools with innovative and inclusive learning environments that support students to grow, learn, and succeed.   

Winner

• Brabham Primary School

Finalists

• Greenfields Primary School
• Gwynne Park Primary School
• Wananami Remote Community School