31 May 2024
Two West Australian schools have been acclaimed nationally among top-performing schools across Australia.
Wiluna Remote Community School, more than 500 km north of Kalgoorlie, and Harrisdale Primary School in Perth’s south were selected as finalists in the Australian Education Awards 2024.
Harrisdale Primary School, pictured, and Wiluna Remote Community School are finalists in the Australian Education Awards.
Wiluna Remote Community School is a finalist in the Prime Super Regional School of the Year and the Ideagen Best First Nations Education Program awards, while Harrisdale Primary School is a finalist in the NRL Schools Primary School of the Year – Government category.
The national awards showcase the top-performing schools, principals, department heads and teachers for their outstanding achievements and transformative work that makes a profound difference to the lives of young people across Australia.
One of the standout initiatives at Wiluna RCS that led to its nomination was its two-way science program which involves partnering with the Wiluna rangers and local Martu community to integrate culturally responsive learning programs that connect the WA science curriculum to Aboriginal knowledges.
The school also has a strong focus on ensuring students leave school ready for the workplace with tailored secondary pathways.
Wiluna Remote Community School acting principal Emily Vandenberg said staff and students were excited to be nominated in the two award categories.
“These nominations not only acknowledge the commitment and passion of the teachers and administrators of Wiluna Remote Community School, but also for the entire community of Wiluna, the local Martu, and our various stakeholders who work harmoniously with the school,” she said.
“In Wiluna, we demonstrate that the entire community is converging for the youth and their future. It has been a collective effort.”
Harrisdale Primary School acting principal Cleo Jenkins said the school community was thrilled to be recognised.
“It is a positive affirmation of the consistency and hard work by students, staff and families to build a school where every student can be successful, and high-quality teaching and learning are prioritised,” she said.
“Being announced as an excellence awardee is also a testament to our incredible foundation principal, Ms Karen Duncan, and her outstanding visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and determination to ensure Harrisdale Primary School continues to be recognised as a school of excellence and of service to others at a local, national, and international level.
“There is an incredible sense of pride with this achievement, and we look forward to the continued success and celebrations shared by our school community.”
The winners of the Australian Education Awards 2024 will be announced in Sydney on Friday 9 August.