The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science recognises outstanding teachers for their efforts in inspiring students with STEM.
This year, Sarah Finney from Stirling East Primary School and Samantha Moyle from Brighton Secondary School have been recognised for their inspiring work in schools. Huge congratulations to them and all of the winners for their hard work and dedication to STEM.
Find out more about them and the prizes below.
The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science recognise two outstanding science teachers who have made a significant contribution to science education.
The awards recognise the teacher’s passion for making science as fascinating and relevant to students as possible.
Here are the 2019 winners:
Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools: Sarah Finney
Sarah Finney, from Stirling East Primary School in South Australia, has introduced hundreds of children of all ages to science.
“The most important thing that children should remember about science is that it’s everywhere. It doesn’t only exist in the classroom,” she says.
One of her most notable achievements is leading an in-depth science inquiry unit at her school. For the past three years, students are encouraged to pick topics relevant to their local area, or interests before they engage with an audience of scientists and present their findings to parents.
Another notable achievement is raising student interest in science. In 2016, only nine students from her school participated in Australia’s Oliphant Science Awards. That number rose to 58 students in 2019.
“Children are born scientists and it’s my job to help them harness that curiosity and exercise it in all areas of their lives.”
Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools: Samantha Moyle
For Dr Samantha Moyle from Brighton Secondary School, STEM learning is vital. That belief has led her to strive to make science fascinating and relevant to her students.
Moyle uses real-world links – such as comparing Iron Man suits with real- life exosuits that help paraplegics walk, to inspire her students.
“I inspire students to love science through creative, hands-on, and dynamic approaches to learning science. I want it to be fun and exciting for them and have a genuine enthusiasm and passion for the subject,” she says.
One of her most notable achievements is leading an in-depth science inquiry unit at her school. For the past three years, students are encouraged to pick topics relevant to their local area, or interests before they engage with an audience of scientists and present their findings to parents.
Outside of the classroom, Moyle’s work doesn’t stop. She runs a Facebook page that promotes science trends, hints and helpful learning tips. She also runs a YouTube channel with helpful videos for students on science report writing and calculating statistics in Excel.
Moyle also leads the school’s Think Bright program for integrated learning in STEM.
