A winning passion for outdoor ed

A passion for outdoor education has earned Mindarie Senior College teacher Ashleigh Weyer the 2024 Outdoors WA-Young Achiever Award.

The second-year teacher was recognised for her work in leading more than 100 Year 11 students through the college’s Outdoor Education program, helping them to overcome fears and push themselves to achieve.

Outdoors WA’s annual awards highlight the importance of encouraging participation in outdoor activities, ensuring more people experience the benefits of being active in nature.  

Outdoors WA CEO, Neil Le Febvre, praised Ashleigh’s professionalism and passion.  

“As a graduate teacher who has taken on the lead role in Outdoor Education at Mindarie Senior College, Ashleigh stood out for her exceptional dedication to developing an outstanding program for students and creating a positive working environment with all her colleagues,” he said. 

“What is very apparent is Ashleigh has a level of professionalism beyond her years and is recognised for this by location providers and her peers.   

“Ashleigh is also a Cadet leader in the MSC Surf Lifesaving Cadets program and externally, is a group leader/outdoor instructor at Ern Halliday Recreation Camp.  

“Ash also works externally at DLGSC camps (Ern Halliday, Bickley, Woodman Point and Point Walter), working closely with students with disabilities, providing opportunities for them to engage to their full capacity in Outdoor programs.”  

Ashleigh’s passion is undeniable and as a teacher and role model, she’s happy to share with the next generation.  

“Having grown up in the north of Western Australia, I was fortunate to have constant exposure to nature, which became an integral part of who I am,” she said.  

“I believe it is crucial to preserve and share these opportunities with the next generation.  

“Outdoor experiences offer more than just time spent in nature; they provide essential life skills and personal growth that cannot be replicated in any other setting. In today’s fast-paced world, it's vital for students to disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural world. Many of my Year 12 students have shared that Outdoor Education has had a profound impact on their lives, offering unforgettable lessons that shaped their personal development.” 

Mindarie Senior College Principal Jonathan Bromage said the recognition is well deserved.  

“We’re all so proud of Ash’s achievement,” he said.  

“She is a superstar graduate teacher and demonstrates great leadership within the Outdoor Education program. Ash has built up strong, positive relationships with her students thorough her high standards and expectations, backed up with consistent compassionate support and mentorship. 

“We’re even more proud of Ash, as she is a former Mindarie Senior College student who studied Outdoor Education for her two years with us as a student.”  

For more information, visit the Outdoors WA website.