WENONA TRIUMPHS

We look back at the 2022 Australian Education Awards, where Wenona educators were celebrated for their exceptional achievements, and Dr Briony Scott received the prestigious title of National School Principal of the Year (non-government).

The award ceremony, held on 12 August, honoured the country’s finest educators and showcased the transformative impact of their work. Wenona received four nominations including Best STEM Program (non-government), Boarding School of the Year (nongovernment), and Secondary School Teacher of the Year (non-government).

Dr Scott, who has served as Wenona’s Principal for 11 years, was nominated by her colleagues for her remarkable leadership and unwavering commitment to the School, especially during the pandemic. Her leadership style is defined by her dedication to empowering girls and young women, fostering a sense of strength, agency, and leadership skills. The Award citation referenced her strong advocacy for kindness, compassionate action, and deep listening to the stories of others.

Dr Scott was also recognised for her establishment of the Renaissance Women’s Leadership Network (RWLN), which, in addition to nurturing the growth of her own staff, supports the career development of women across the educational sector.

Wenona’s commitment to quality STEM education was recognised with a nomination for Best STEM Program (non-government). Over the past five years, the number of students choosing STEM-related disciplines at Wenona has increased four-fold, thanks to initiatives such as the Stage 6 Engineering class, Biotechnology Unit, integrated Year 12 Biology Skills Lab, and partnerships with the University of Sydney and Amgen. Under the guidance of Director of STEM, Dr Alisha Thompson, the School also continues to offer staff mentoring, coaching opportunities, grants, and fellowships to further elevate the girls’ STEM learning.

The Boarding School of the Year nomination highlighted Wenona’s exceptional residential care for students and their families, as well as the compassionate response to the pandemic demonstrated by our boarding staff. Led by Head of Boarding, Ms Nonie Ayling, they are renowned for creating a nurturing environment where every student feels valued and supported. During the COVID-19 crisis, this commitment was reinforced through online meetings, personal phone calls from Ms Ayling, and engagement in student projects to remind boarders of their place in a larger community.

Ms Natasha Isbel, Middle School Head of Teaching and Learning, was nominated for Secondary School Teacher of the Year (non-government). A former practising lawyer, Ms Isbel was recognised for her outstanding teaching practice, her students’ impressive results, and her ability to provide targeted feedback. Ms Isbel’s work to improve literacy in the Middle School, through the development and implementation of a Foundation Skills class, was also acknowledged.

The Awards were welcome recognition as Wenona continues its journey of unwavering commitment to excellence in education and the empowerment of girls and young women.