Morawa District High School and Beachlands Primary School win gongs at WA Education Department Awards

Two Mid West schools have been recognised for the quality of their leadership and inclusion in the WA Education Department’s annual awards. The schools claimed wins in two of the six categories. The gong for excellence in school leadership went to Morawa District High School, with staff praised for their “united approach that creates a safe and welcoming environment for everyone”. The school’s leadership style involves strong collaboration to boost student success and community involvement. Its keen focus on literacy and its successful student leadership program were also mentioned as contributing to a positive school culture. Morawa District High School principal Tonia Carslake said it was a privilege to receive an award. “We feel extremely honoured to accept this award on behalf of this fabulous team at Morawa High School,” she said. “This is a big team effort and I really want to thank my amazing team, and I’m proud to be their principal.” The school’s leadership extended across multiple layers of the school to cater for all needs, including teaching staff and non-teaching staff, with students also displaying leadership roles. Ms Carslake said strong student leadership strategies were helping to shape the future leaders. The other local winner was Beachlands Primary School, which won in the category for excellence in disability and inclusion. The school encourages all students to achieve their “Beachlands best”, with staff recognised for their work in helping students with diverse learning needs thrive in a mainstream setting. The school was recognised for building its staff’s capability and collaborating with students, their families, health professionals and the community. Beachlands Primary School Principal Helen Barnes said the recognition of the team’s hard work and dedication was wonderful. “Inclusion is woven through the fabric of our school, as every effort is made to ensure students achieve through partnerships and student agency,” she said. The awards, unveiled at a breakfast event in Perth on Monday, celebrate the achievements of WA public schools and their positive impact on students. Winning schools will each receive $20,000, and the three finalists in each category receive $5000. Education Minister Tony Buti congratulated the winners. “With both regional and metropolitan schools represented in the award winners, I know our public schools across the State are delivering exceptional education opportunities for young Western Australians no matter their location,” he said.