Hoppers Crossing teachers, principals and school staff are among the finalists being acknowledged by the Andrews Labor Government in this year’s Victorian Education Excellence Awards. 

The Grange P-12 College - Outstanding Koorie Education Award Finalist 

The Grange P-12 College has embarked upon a program of change to create an inclusive and respectful school culture that welcomes diversity and embeds high expectations.  

The College has implementing the Marrung Aboriginal Education Plan which was introduced by the Victorian Government in 2016 to ensure that Koorie Victorians achieve their learning aspirations.  

Using data and evidence-based practice, Koorie students at The Grange have been supported to create educational pathways. Senior Koorie students have been mentored to complete Koorie school-based traineeships that have led to employment with companies such as Qantas, ANZ Bank and Australia Post.  

Guided by its Koorie Engagement Support Officer (KESO), the college has forged stronger connections with Koorie families.  

Results have been positive. The 2018 School Report for ‘Attitudes to School Survey by Aboriginal Status’ showed that in the domain of ‘Effective teaching practice for cognitive engagement’,  Koorie students responded positively at 76%, compared to 65% for similar schools and 67% for the state. 

Member for Tarneit, Sarah Connolly and Member for Western Metropolitan Region, Kaushaliya Vaghela visited The Grange P-12 College to speak to staff and students involved about the success of the program. 

All winners are awarded professional development grants of up to $25,000 to support their work in schools. 

The Labor Government is building the Education State where every student can access a great local school and get a great education, which involves having great teachers at the forefront of our classrooms to help kids thrive. 

That’s why the Victorian Education Excellence Award winners receive grants towards professional development and learning, to ensure our teachers are well supported to lead great careers in the Education State. 

Winners will be announced at a ceremony to coincide with Australia's celebration of World Teachers’ Day on 25 October. The Lindsay Thompson Award for Excellence in Education will also be awarded on the night. 

More information about the awards and finalists is available at www.education.vic.gov.au/veea   

Quotes attributable to Member for Tarneit Sarah Connolly 

“Teachers and Principals can make all the difference when it comes to the quality of education our youth receive, so it’s fantastic to see the acknowledgement of those who go above and beyond for their students.”