NSW Premier’s Prizes

Applications are now open for the 2019 NSW Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering including the Prize for Excellence in Science or Mathematics Teaching. Nominate inspiring colleagues for these prestigious awards that recognise excellence in science and engineering, and reward leading researchers for cutting-edge work that has generated economic, environmental, health, social, educational or technological benefits for New South Wales.

The Prizes raise community awareness and appreciation of the important contribution scientists and engineers make to our daily lives, and encourage careers in both fields. They will be presented by the NSW Premier, the Honourable Gladys Berejiklian MP, with the NSW Governor, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AO QC  as the Patron.

Nominate a STEM Teacher

Know an educator who deserves recognition? Nominate them for these prestigious Prizes! Last year’s winner of the Prize for Innovation in Science or Mathematics Teaching in NSW was Mrs Heidi Hammond from East Hills Girls Technology High School.

For over two decades, Heidi has been inspiring girls to participate in science at high school, leading to an increased number of young women progressing to undertake tertiary studies in science and engineering.

As the Head Teacher, Science in an all-girls high school, Heidi has set the bar high to ensure that her students engage with science. Under her guidance and leadership, East Hills Girls’ Science Faculty now offers 15 senior classes for Years 11 and 12 and an elective ‘iSTEM’ class for both Years 9 and 10.

The faculty also oversees a cross-curricular project for Stage 4 in sustainability, working with the STEM Enrichment Academy at the University of Sydney.

“Receiving this award was both humbling and an honour to be recognised for providing STEM opportunities for our students.” said Heidi. “It has provided opportunities to network with the wider scientific community which could translate into authentic student activities in the future.”

Heidi has a strong history of implementing programs to promote science as a hands-on subject, including the establishment of a greenhouse to teach plant science. She also shares ideas and resources with primary schools in her network, particularly around the authentic integration of technology.

A graduate of the US Space Academy for Educators program, Heidi’s enthusiasm for breaking down the barriers faced by girls in studying male-dominated subject areas has seen her students attend the Liverpool Area Zone Science Teachers Association iSTEM Advanced Space Academy Program in the US.

Heidi was rewarded for the 2018 Prize in recognition of her lifetime efforts in equipping her students with confidence and experience. Help other inspiring teachers like Heidi who are making a difference receive the recognition they deserve by nominating them for this Prize.

Nominations for the 2019 NSW Premier’s Prizes for Science & Engineering close Monday 1 July 2019.