I acknowledge and congratulate two teachers whose work has inspired generations of Australian school students to take an interest in science.
Dr Ken Silburn of Casula High School in south-west Sydney was today named the recipient of the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools.
Mrs Rebecca Johnson of Windaroo State School in Brisbane was named the recipient of the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools.
Sparking an early interest in science in young Australians can set children up for a lifetime of interest in exploring, discovering and testing the world around them.
A focus on science, as well as other STEM subjects – technology, engineering and mathematics – is vital to ensuring young Australians have the skills and knowledge they will need to adapt to changing technological, economic, and social needs of the 21st century.
Dr Silburn and Mrs Johnson’s awards encourage us all to remember the teachers who inspired us at school.
And to recognise the thousands of teachers today, and those studying to become the teachers of tomorrow, who every day, help students to learn, grow and see the world anew.
Details of all 2015 Prize recipients.
Senator Birmingham’s media contact: 0447 644 957
Department Media: media@education.gov.au