Throughout the year we have showcased some of the many amazing teachers in NSW Independent schools. This term we celebrate World Teachers' Day (25 October) - so here are six more incredible educators who represent all that we most appreciate about our teachers. Each has been nominated by their colleagues for their dedication to education and their students.
Connor Hutchinson - Cedars Christian School
In just his second year of full-time teaching, Connor Hutchinson, a Music Teacher, has made a remarkable impact at Cedars Christian College with his love of music and a willingness to bring a fresh approach to how it can be done. His efforts have transformed the school’s music program, growing from one primary band to twelve programs across primary and secondary in just three years. His deep passion for music and commitment to his students are evident in every aspect of his work. By creating engaging and relevant learning experiences, Connor fosters a supportive environment that encourages students to take risks and develop their musical skills.
Connor’s career as an educator began through studying at the Conservatorium of Music in Sydney before pursuing a Master of Teaching. He had originally intended to undertake a master’s degree in music overseas in either the UK or US, however Covid put a halt to that. Drawing on his experience as a music tutor, Connor realised that teaching could be a new opportunity. As a former student of Cedars, he was naturally drawn back to the school, inspired by its strong sense of community and the untapped potential for expanding its music program. His proactive mindset led him to revamp the music tutor program, introducing specialists and expanding the range of instruments available.
Recognising the gap in performance experiences, also due to Covid, Connor organised authentic performance opportunities. One such event was the 2023 Year 12 Graduation where the Senior Orchestra, Choir and Jazz Band combined to perform Taylor Swift’s Shake It Off. Engaging with students on their level around music has helped shift the narrative around music groups, making them aspirational rather than stigmatised.
Connor’s ability to collaborate with colleagues and involve them in performances has enriched the program and inspired students. Connor understands that for many students, music is their safe space, and uses that to transform that into a lifelong experience. He sees the value that the discipline of music and practice can bring to his students’ learning, and he loves hearing their stories of success, however small. Julie Cochrane, the Deputy Principal at Cedars, sees Connor as living the school’s spirit of “preparing the way” for students by growing their confidence through music. For Connor, teaching and music are intertwined; Don’t Stop Believin' by Journey, a favourite of Connor’s, symbolises his belief in the transformative power of education and music.
Amar Elmir – Unity Grammar
Amar, an early career educator, has already had a noticeable impact on the community of staff, parents, and students at Unity Grammar. Her care for her students, collaborative approach with colleagues, and ability to connect and engage reflect not only her love of learning but also her capacity to be an inspirational educator. Being an Early Stage 1 Kindergarten teacher, Amar is uniquely placed to shape the initial experiences her students have at the commencement of their schooling. She is also the first point of connection and contact with the school community that the parents have. Amar values these connections, to her it is the heart of all she does in her role as an educator of the youngest students attending Unity Grammar.
Described as being always present for those she is with, prepared and ready for any challenges that may arise during the day, Amar’s professional presence belies her position as an early career educator having entered the profession in 2022. Amar sees compassion, empathy, and engagement as key to being a successful teacher as she works with both mind and heart to share those core values with her students. Generous by nature, Amar willing supports other teachers in need, whether it is through additional support or relief in class, or with the sharing of resources. She welcomes others into her classroom and happily shares the successes, and challenges, that early career educators face and work diligently to overcome. She contributes to, and benefits from, the strengths of the community she is part of as a teacher at Unity Grammar.
Amar has connected with her peers and the school community through her hard work and dedication, sharing her time, resources and enthusiasm for learning with those around her. For Amar, the transformational role teachers play in the lives of young people is the foundation that underpins her practice. She seeks every day to set high standards for herself and her students, to inspire them to see that they can do and be more in the same way she herself was inspired by her thoughtful and caring teacher in Year 4. It is these connections to community, family, and friends that drive her in her role as a teacher. It is her engagement of mind and heart that underpins her relationships with her students, their parents, and her colleagues as an inspiring educator.
Penny Teale – Arndell Anglican College
After a long career at Rouse Hill Anglican College, Penny moved to Arndell Anglican School at the beginning of 2024 to take on the role of Stage 3 Coordinator. When choosing to become a teacher at the end of her own schooling, Penny weighed up the options for what career would give her the greatest range of all the things she enjoyed doing and wanted to achieve and chose teaching. She is committed to helping both students and colleagues to seethe best in themselves and bring that out in all that they accomplish.
Penny imparts a love of learning to her students and hopes that they will always be curious learners who are keen to engage with the world around them, seeking answers for themselves and sharing that curiosity and passion for understanding with others. An enthusiastic advocate for her students, Penny provides clear and firm guidelines and expectations, pushing them to reach beyond what they thought they could achieve. She knows when to offer a gentle push or word of encouragement, modelling the values of diligence and effort in her own teaching and learning.
During her career, Penny has supported and mentored new career teachers, particularly with completing their teaching accreditation.Penny sees the connection to community as key to being an effective teacher,the way in which the students feel seen, the parents know they are heard, and her peers see they are supported. She works hard to ensure has a strong connection with parents, caregivers, and students.
Lauren Korotkov – Emanuel School
As Head of Rabin House and HSIE teacher at Emanuel School, Lauren Korotkov is acutely aware of how difficult it is to be a teenager in 2024, and the crucial role that schools and teachers play in supporting them. As a fundamental part of the Wellbeing Team, Lauren brings an invaluable blend of academic rigour and empathetic leadership to her roles. With a profound capacity to manage complex cases, Lauren ensures that the needs of both students and their families are met with sensitivity and tact. “Lauren is the real deal,” Adam Majsay, Head of High School, notes. “If I’m walking around the school I can see Lauren having quiet conversations with a student on a bench,” illustrating her commitment to making students feel safe, known, and advocated for.
Lauren's educational philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that “We’re not preparing the road for the students, we’re preparing the students for the road.” This approach is evident in her classroom where she teaches Legal Studies and History with a passion that ignites curiosity and encourages critical thinking among her students. Her ability to engage students is particularly noted in the level of rigour in the feedback she provides, which students love. Having started her journey eight years ago on a practicum placement, her knack for building connections and fostering a sense of community among her students has only grown, evidenced by her recent nomination for the Educator Rising Star Award in 2021.
Today, as a Head of House and a leader among her peers, Lauren not only oversees the school's tutor program but also plays a pivotal role in supporting the transition of Year 7 students into high school. Her expertise in adolescent mental health enables her to live the message of wellbeing she preaches—ensuring her own self-care is as much a priority as her students'. Her efforts extend beyond the classroom, involving her in initiatives that amplify student voice and foster a culture of agency. Lauren's work is a beacon of what it means to be a teacher in 2024, truly understanding and meeting the complex needs of today's teenagers, helping them believe in their power to make a difference.
Megan Lloyd – Hunter Aspect
Megan Lloyd of Hunter ASPECT School exemplifies exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to autism education. As Deputy Principal for six years and with two decades of experience in the field, Megan has demonstrated an unwavering passion for supporting not only her students but also their families and her fellow educators. She is praised for her hands-on approach and her constant exploration of new ways to help students achieve their 'different brilliant.' Colleagues like Leeanne Hawke admire Megan for placing students’ wellbeing at the heart of everything she does, noting her positivity and ability to inspire those around her. Her beautiful rapport with students and their families, coupled with a profound understanding of the challenges autism can present at home, makes her a compassionate and supportive figure within the school community.
Megan’s role involves daily interactions with high-needs students, where she excels in building strong partnerships with parents, the community, and therapists to provide comprehensive support. A good day for Megan is being deeply engaged with complex cases and witnessing tangible progress in each student’s development. Her dedication ensures that during the limited time students spend at the school, they are thoroughly prepared for post-school challenges with personalised plans tailored to their unique needs. Her journey in autism education began with volunteer work during university, which sparked a career marked by learning and growth, driven by her encounters with neurodiverse students who she finds refreshingly authentic.
In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Megan is a visible presence in the school, frequently visiting satellite classes and maintaining an open-door policy that fosters a supportive environment for staff. She values learning from her colleagues and provides feedback that nurtures their professional development. Megan encourages new teachers working with neurodiverse students to remain curious, reliable, and predictable, which helps in building trust and stability in an often unpredictable world. Her approach not only enhances the educational experience but also reinforces a sense of safety among students, much like her colleague Jane Greenstreet, whom she cites as an inspiration. Megan is proud to be part of an extraordinary team and is grateful for the opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of her students and their families.
Nely Daher – Knox Grammar School
When Nely Daher joined Knox Grammar School in 2019 as an early career teacher, she was immediately thrust into the deep end, navigating the uncharted waters of teaching during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This challenging start provided a steep learning curve, from mastering IT systems to understanding diverse educational structures and learning approaches. Her resilience and adaptability were quickly recognised, leading to her role as the Kindergarten Team Leader, where she now successfully manages four streams and collaborates with other stage coordinators to ensure everything runs smoothly. Scott James, Principal of Knox Grammar School, praises Nely for the grace with which she handles her responsibilities, stating, "Nely goes about her work with such grace, patience, and kindness, which inspires all to trust her and have confidence that she cares for each person as the individual they are."
Nely’s approach to education is characterised by her boundless energy and commitment to creating a vibrant and nurturing environment for her students. She is celebrated for fostering a team culture where open communication is encouraged, helping her staff feel empowered and supported. Her enjoyment in her role is palpable as she mentions, "Every week is massive—we just had 100 days of Kindy, as well as orientation for next year, and the sports carnival," but it’s the amazing energy that keeps her motivated. Nely thrives on celebrating the moments when classroom dynamics allow for an open mindset that inspires both teachers and students alike. Her colleague, Emma Donaldson, comments that “Nely always challenges herself, and puts her hand up for everything.” She takes pride in her students' development, particularly in their growing understanding of learning processes and self-regulation, and laughingly notes, "they advise me when it’s time for my coffee!"
Beyond the classroom, Nely’s dedication extends to the wider school community. She actively engages with families and the community, building strong partnerships that enhance the inclusiveness and warmth of the school environment. Her journey from the courtroom to the classroom—transitioning from a legal profession to early childhood education after discovering a passion for teaching while volunteering—underscores her profound commitment to education. She credits Abbotsleigh teacher, Peita van Bussel for inspiring her, and in a lovely twist of fate, Nely has since taught Peita’s son. Nely’s leadership not only highlights her expertise and compassion but also her drive to inspire future innovators in a complex world, making her a pivotal figure in shaping the positive educational landscape at Knox Grammar School.
