25 August 2025
Collier Primary School principal Emma Bancroft has been nominated for a national humanitarian award for her work forming a language translation network to foster greater inclusion in her school community.
Ms Bancroft started the Translation Support Group in 2022 to help bridge the language gap that many in her school community experienced.
Collier Primary School principal Emma Bancroft has been nominated for the The Fred Hollows Foundation’s Fred Awards.
The group is made up of 21 parents who are fluent in 14 languages.
With 41% of her students speaking a language other than English at home, the group has become a vital support system, promoting inclusivity and a sense of belonging for families from diverse language backgrounds.
Some of the languages offered include Arabic, Bengali, Cantonese, Mandarin, Dzongkha, Farsi, French, Indonesian, Sinhalese, Vietnamese and Welsh.
“Breaking down barriers of all kinds is really important to me, I will support my community as much as I can,” Ms Bancroft said.
“We have been able to use the network to assist with informal and formal parent meetings so we can all be on the same page to best support our students.”
As well as her efforts championing language inclusivity, Ms Bancroft was recognised for other initiatives, including a school-wide fundraiser that yielded 19 food hampers and blankets for families in need.
She said she felt “shocked, but very honoured” to be nominated for The Fred Hollows Foundation’s Fred Awards that celebrate everyday humanitarians across Australia who embody kindness, compassion and integrity.
“Life can be tough, and we should all be here to support each other through it,” she said.
“Students cannot learn unless they are fed, clothed, happy and feel safe and I will always be a champion for them.”
The Fred Hollows Humanity Award also recognises Year 6 students who follow in Fred’s footsteps by making a positive difference in their community.
More information is available at the Fred Hollows Foundation website.