Teachers vie for State accolade

Two of Rockingham’s top teachers are vying for the title of Primary Teacher of the Year after being announced as finalists on Monday.

Bungaree Primary School science teacher Jodie Schicker and Tuart Rise Primary School physical education teacher Brigit Wall were named along with 40 other finalists for this year’s WA Education Awards.

Ms Schicker began her teaching career 22 years ago and said her heart was in the classroom.

“It was lovely to be nominated by the school and that’s kind of all I expected; it was very overwhelming and humbling,” she said.

“It’s nice to be acknowledged but there are so many great teachers that I have worked with and do work with now that do an awesome job everyday.

“I always wanted to be a teacher, I was the girl that lined all of her teddies up and played schools with them and take the role.”

Ms Schicker is celebrating her 18th year at Bungaree PS and is teaching the second generation of families. She also works alongside Scitech and leads the North Perron science network.

“I’ve done science for the last five years and it’s what I’m passionate about,” she said.

“Being in the classroom is what I love so I don’t think I’ll ever give that up, it’s a job of passion.”

Ms Wall has been teaching for 18 years with a background in special needs, autism and physical education and said she was very surprised to be announced as a finalist.

“Everything I do is for the kids, I don’t do it for accolades,” she said.

“I provide before-school programs so students can learn a range of sports and try different things. The kids appreciate the effort you put in.

“I like a challenge, doing new things and having projects on the go; I do my job because I love it.”

Education Minister Peter Collier said the awards were a fantastic way to celebrate top public educators and the difference they made to the lives of students.

Award winners will be announced on November 28.