UOW academic wins Quality Teaching Award

Dec 08, 2006

Doug Hearne from the University of Wollongong’s Faculty of Education has been recognised as one of the state’s most outstanding teachers and honoured with an Australian College of Educators Quality Teaching Award.

His achievement was officially recognised at a reception at Government House on Friday 1 December where he received his award from NSW Minister for Education and Training, Carmel Tebbutt.

The award is given annually to educators working in primary or secondary schools, TAFE, colleges or universities and recognises commitment to high quality teaching and excellence over the course of a career. This year, 37 educators from across NSW received an award from 127 nominees.

The selection process involves each teacher submitting a portfolio and undergoing a rigorous investigation by the award team that visits the teacher's classroom and interviews parents, students and colleagues.

“It is a great privilege to receive this award,” said Mr Hearne, who has been dedicated to his profession for over 26 years.

“I am very passionate about teaching and take it as a very serious responsibility. Teaching and student learning have always been central to my work at UOW.

“Since beginning in 1994 at UOW I have always considered that my students deserve the best quality teaching that I am able to offer them. My experiences over many years in the Physical and Health Education profession have enabled me to support student learning in ways that are contemporary, relevant and challenging.”

Mr Hearne said he admires and respects those who choose teaching as a career path.

“I hold high expectations for my students and encourage them to take risks in their learning. In holding these expectations of my students it is only fair that I accept my responsibility to support their learning in a variety of ways.

“This award is a humbling affirmation of my beliefs over 26 years as a teacher – 13 of them as an educator at UOW.”