Community
22 May, 2021
Equipping teachers to change lives
JOSIE Millard’s experiences growing up in the remote community of Weipa have inspired her to pursue a career as a teacher.
She is among several local Year 12 graduates that have been awarded with scholarships and medals of recognition by the Queensland Government.
Last year, Ms Millard graduated from Western Cape College and is currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at Central Queensland University, based in Cairns.
She is among 36 students across the state awarded with a $5000 Aspiring Teacher Grant to support her university studies.
“I’m planning to use my grant towards my university fees and also for flights home to Weipa to see my family,” Josie said.
“Growing up in a remote community you really see the difference teachers make to children’s education and to their whole lives.
“I’d love to teach in a rural or remote community when I graduate. It’s so important for children to understand that growing up in a remote community shouldn’t limit you and you can achieve whatever you set your mind to.”
Other recipients of the $5000 grant included Caitlin Clowes from Innisfail State College, Chantelle Sariman from Cairns State High School and Kylie Vecchio from Innisfail State College.
The Queensland Government also recently presented ten students from across the state with TJ Ryan Memorial Medals, including Far North students Isabella Muckalt from St Monica’s College, Gnu Kim from Peace Lutheran College and Liam Newlands from Mareeba State High School.
The award is a memorial to Thomas Joseph Ryan, former teacher, barrister, Labor Party Leader and Queensland Premier (1915–1919), and are provided to students who demonstrate a strong commitment to high academic achievement and outstanding leadership in both their school and the local community.
TJ Ryan Memorial Merit awards were also presented to Paolo Zammit from Cairns State High School, Rachel Henney, from Ingham State High School .
