09 June 2026
Four WA schools have been recognised as finalists in the 2026 Australian Education Awards.
Atwell College, Mosman Park School for Deaf Children, Wattle Grove Primary School, and Joseph Banks Secondary College have been named finalists in various categories.
The awards recognise educators who make an outstanding impact on students, schools, and communities.
Atwell College was named a finalist in the Special Education School of the Year category.
Atwell College – Special Education School of the Year
Atwell College was named a finalist for the staff’s commitment and continued work to build an inclusive, student‑centred school culture, with a strong focus on disability and inclusive education.
Principal Darren Payton said being a finalist was a source of pride for the college community.
“Atwell has long been committed to building an inclusive school where every student is known, valued and supported to succeed, and this recognition reflects the sustained effort of our staff in bringing that commitment to life each day,” he said.
Deputy Principal Brent Passchier said this recognises the significant innovation and long-term work undertaken at the college
“The finalist announcement highlights the impact of the strong partnerships between staff, students and families, and recognises the inclusive learning environment our students help to shape through their engagement, resilience, and contribution to school life," Mr Passchier said.
Joseph Banks Secondary College was named a finalist in two school and two individual categories.
Joseph Banks Secondary College – Department Head of the Year, Street Science Best Stem Program, Secondary School Teacher of the Year – Government, and A Team Tuition Secondary School of the Year – Government
Joseph Banks Secondary College was named a finalist in four categories for the staff’s commitment to student success through inclusive and personalised learning, strong relationships with the community, wellbeing approaches that strengthen belonging and engagement, and the development of the Western Australian Space Science Education Centre (WASSEC).
Principal Liz Smith is thrilled.
“It is a lovely recognition of the commitment of our staff, the success of our students, supported by our whole school community,” Ms Smith said.
“Nominating staff for individual awards is a way for us to tangibly demonstrate our appreciation of our staff.”
Brittni Balogh was recognised as a Secondary School Teacher of the Year – Government finalist for her work in digital technologies, improving student outcomes, creating engaging programs and building digital confidence and capability among colleagues.
“Teaching can be quite a behind-the-scenes profession, so to have that work recognised felt really special. At the same time, it didn’t feel like just my achievement, it felt like a reflection of the people I work with every day,” Miss Balogh said.
Jessica Remi was named a finalist in the Department Head of the Year category for her commitment to supporting students and colleagues and for building strong community relationships that have opened opportunities for students.
“It means a lot to have the work I do recognised, especially the focus on creating inclusive learning environments, supporting students and staff, and building strong partnerships that help young people thrive,” she said.
Mosman Park School for Deaf Children was named a finalist in two categories.
Mosman Park School for Deaf Children – Primary School of the Year – Government and Special Education School of the Year
Recognising the school staff’s commitment to bilingual education for deaf and hard of hearing students, Mosman Park School for Deaf Children was named a finalist in two categories.
Principal Monique Smith said they were recognised for creating an accessible, language-rich environment where students can thrive academically, socially and culturally through meaningful access to Auslan, deaf role models and deaf culture.
“It was exciting to see deaf education, bilingual learning and the importance of language and cultural connection recognised on a national stage,” Ms Smith said.
“It was especially meaningful for our Auslan Language Specialists, whose lived experience and cultural knowledge play such an important role in our school.
“It highlights what is possible when deaf children are provided with accessible, language-rich and culturally affirming educational environments.”
Ms Smith hopes that the recognition will help raise awareness about deaf education and the importance of deaf role models within schools.
Wattle Grove Primary School was named a finalist for Primary School of the Year – Government.
Wattle Grove Primary School - Primary School of the Year – Government
Wattle Grove Primary School has been named as a finalist in the education awards for the staff’s evidence-informed teaching, innovative student programs, and professional learning leadership as a Centre for Excellence in the Explicit Teaching of Literacy Centre School.
Principal Kelly Peake said she is incredibly proud and it’s a rewarding moment for the whole school community.
“It highlights the exceptional work taking place across the school, from high-quality teaching and targeted interventions to student leadership, wellbeing, arts, sport, and innovation,” Ms Peake said.
“This recognition belongs to our entire school community and reflects what can be achieved when learning, excellence, equity, and care are at the centre of everything we do.”
The winners will be announced on Friday 7 August. To see the full list of finalists, head to the Australian Education Awards’ website.