NSW top teachers have been recognised by Board of Studies, Teaching and Educational Standards (BOSTES) President Tom Alegounarias at a ceremony in Sydney tonight.

The first 151 teachers, from across NSW public, Catholic and independent schools, received medals acknowledging achievement of the highest levels of accreditation.

Mr Alegounarias encouraged the community to celebrate these outstanding teachers for their demonstration of excellence according to rigorous national standards.

“There are 140,000 or so dedicated teachers working hard in schools across NSW to educate our children. What sets teachers accredited at the levels of Highly Accomplished and Lead apart is a proven commitment to building a collaborative and reflective teaching culture in NSW.

“Every day, they are leading by example within their schools, communities and professional networks, actively working to better understand, identify and share strategies that work to improve student outcomes.

“They are generously mentoring, creating learning opportunities and supporting their colleagues to grow professionally,” Mr Alegounarias said.

^{Lead teachers, Karen Burke (Principal, Figtree High School) and Donna Loughran (Principal Doonside Technology High School)}

BOSTES Highly Accomplished or Lead Teacher Accreditation involves a comprehensive application process, which requires teachers to submit multiple sources of evidence to support:

• an exceptional knowledge of their subject;
• modelling of highly effective, evidence based teaching strategies;
• informal or formal leadership roles and outcomes within and beyond their school; and
• successfully initiating opportunities for parents to engage in their children’s learning.

For more information about applying for higher level teacher accreditation visit the BOSTES teacher Accreditation website www.nswteachers.nsw.edu.au

Download photos from the ceremony: www.flickr.com/photos/128432248@N02/albums/72157671379751062

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