The unsung heroes of our education system last night received well-deserved recognition at the annual Teaching in the Territory Awards, honouring exceptional teachers, principals and education support staff.

Educators from across the Territory attended awards ceremonies held in Darwin, Alice Springs, Nhulunbuy, Katherine and Tennant Creek at the celebration held each year on World Teachers Day.

The Teaching in the Territory Excellence Awards recognise and celebrate the dedication and commitment of Northern Territory Government school teachers, principals, leaders and support staff to providing quality education for Territory children.

Each of the Territory’s six education regions has a winner for each category. Each category then has an overall winner. 

The overall winners for the 2019 Teaching in the Territory Excellence Awards are:

• Northern Territory Principal of the Year: Brenda Jolley, Larapinta Primary School, Alice Springs region

• Northern Territory School Leader of the Year: Brooke Sweeney, Lajamanu School, Katherine region

• Northern Territory Primary Teacher of the Year: Dane Russell, Wagaman Primary School, Darwin region

• Northern Territory Secondary Teacher of the Year: Chin Huan, Tennant Creek High School, Barkly region

• Northern Territory Aboriginal Educator of the Year: Hagar Nadjamerrek, Gunbalanya School, Palmerston and Rural region

• Northern Territory Special Educator of the Year: Larelle Gilbert, Jingili Primary School,  Darwin region

• Northern Territory Vocational Education Trainer of the Year: Adrienne McMahon, Katherine High School, Katherine region

• Northern Territory Education Support Person of the Year: Daisy Wulumu, Shepherdson College, Arnhem region

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, Selena Uibo.

“Our teachers, principals and support staff are the lifeblood of our education system and last night was all about honouring each and every one who works so tirelessly for the benefit of our Territory children.

“I congratulate all the winners and nominees in last night’s awards, but also say thanks to all our educators on World Teachers Day, for doing their best for our kids.

“The Territory Labor Government will always invest in education because it is a smart investment in our future.

“We are delivering on our election promise to restore 164 teacher positions slashed by the previous CLP Government because we value our educators and the critical role they play.”

Media contact: Hannah West 0436 641 108