27 September 2023

The Hon Kristy McBain 
Member for Eden-Monaro

An Eden-Monaro education assistant has been recognised on the national stage after being named the 2023 Australian Teacher’s Aide of the Year.

Ms Rachel Hawkins from Monaro High School has been recognised for the impact she has had on her students and her dedication to supporting learning.

Ms Hawkins has been with Monaro High School (MHS) for five and a half years as a Student Learning Support Officer (SLSO), but has more than 18 years of experience in the role.

In collaboration with staff, Ms Hawkins researched and developed an evidence-based plan targeting student agency, and high expectations, and provided professional development opportunities to SLSOs.

Ms Hawkins also created an important handbook for Monaro High School that outlines the roles and responsibilities of SLSOs as well as conducting weekly mentoring sessions for new SLSOs staff to understand their role.

Kristy McBain Member for Eden-Monaro said the Awards celebrate the hard work of teacher aides.

“Congratulations to Rachel on this outstanding achievement,” Kristy McBain said.

“We are so fortunate that Rachel calls Eden-Monaro home, what an amazing asset to the community.

“These Awards recognise teacher aides and their unwavering commitment to ensure all students can reach their full potential.”

Minister for Education, Jason Clare, said education assistants help improve student outcomes by collaborating with teachers in the classroom.

“The winners from this year’s Teacher Aides Awards are exceptional educators who are changing children’s lives by giving them that extra bit of support,” Mr Clare said.

“The impressive achievements of these winners and finalists, shows the important contribution teacher aides make to the students, teachers, and staff they support.”

[ENDS]

2023 Winners:

• Australian Teacher Aide of the Year – Ms Rachel Hawkins, a Student Learning Support Officer (SLSO) at Monaro High School, in New South Wales, and
• Australian Teacher Aide Team of the Year - Learning Enrichment Officer Team (LEOs) from West Moreton Anglican College, in Queensland.