A group of high school students that has made a remarkable contribution to the correction of club foot disability in children in Bangladesh, and two primary students who are encouraging 800 Aboriginal student peers to take an active interest in STEM learning are among the recipients of the Minister for Education’s Children’s Week Awards.
In all, seven awards and honourable mentions have been given to successful students.
Other winning primary and high school students were recognised for excellent academic achievement, outstanding school and community contributions, and fundraising for others in need.
Children’s Week is a national annual festival that was run from 18 to 29 October this year. The week aims to bring worldwide attention to the need to understand, appreciate and care about children.
“The achievement of these young citizens is truly inspiring, and they deserve recognition for the great work they are doing in their school life and within their community,” said Education Minister John Gardner.
“These young people demonstrate the ideal qualities that will make them excellent leaders and influencers who will have a positive impact on the future of our state.”
The 2019 Minister for Education Award recipients are:
Primary School
Cameron Rankine and Aaron Schneider, Loxton Primary School
For exemplary participation as members of the Young Aboriginal STEM Thinkers of South Australia team at the 2019 STEM Aboriginal Congress and the inspiration they provided to 800 Aboriginal student peers.
Samuel Weavers, East Adelaide Primary School
For the development of his online popcorn business, his sharing of his success with others both locally and in Singapore, his demonstration that he is not limited by autism and his facilitation of fundraising for other in need, through Kids4Kids.
Hannah Durand, Kapunda Primary School (Honorable Mention)
In recognition of excellence in her academic endeavours, together with considerable success in choral and instrumental performance, leading to a scholarship to the Open Music Academy at the University of Adelaide Conservatorium.
Hudson Linke, Westminster School (Honorable Mention)
In recognition of his demonstrated understanding as Ngarrindjeri student of the absolute requirement for reconciliation and the acceptance of past wrongs, and the example has has shown his secondary peers of the value of speaking up.
High School
Sabrina Passelli, Sarah Pike and Mahla Truscott, St Peter’s Girls School
For a remarkable contribution to the correction of club foot disability in children in Bangladesh. With the assistance of professional mentoring, they have designed an improved sole which will encourage more dedicated four year wearing of brace shoes, as needed to complete correction of the disability.
Elijah Smith, Kapunda High School
In recognition of an outstanding school career academically, in sport, music and leadership, while also making a significant contribution to the community at local, state and national levels. He has managed all of this while continuing to take a supportive role in his family.
Cameron Dixon, Glossop High School (Honorable Mention)
For exemplary contribution to school and community, particularly through the sharing of his understanding of technology, allowing collaboration in the management of inter-school events.
