Our World Teachers’ Day student film competition was a great success, attracting more than 200 entries from primary, secondary, P–12 and special schools.

The judging panel was very impressed by the authentic student voice present in the majority of films.

Their answers to the question ‘What makes a great teacher?’ were delivered with creativity and enthusiasm. A common theme was that a great teacher was one who helped students and truly cared about them.

The winning entries were announced by Institute Chairperson Susan Halliday on World Teachers’ Day, 30 October 2009. Wonga Park Primary School won the P–6 category, while Padua College Rosebud was the winner in the 7–12 category.

Wonga Park’s film followed the theme ‘Secret Super Spies’ as curious young secret agents went undercover in the classroom to investigate what a great teacher does. The Padua College entry followed an engaging young host as he humorously quizzed staff at his school about the qualities of a great teacher.

Institute Chief Executive Officer Andrew Ius visited both schools on World Teachers’ Day to present their prizes: 10 iPod touch units for classroom use and individual book vouchers for the student film makers.

The eight highly-commended finalists were Ashburton Primary School, Christian College Junior School, Manchester Primary School, Sandringham Primary School, St Joseph’s Primary School Brunswick West (Prep A and Prep S), Timbarra Primary School, Ringwood Secondary College and Wonthaggi Secondary College.

See the winning and highly-commended entries.

Each class which entered has been sent a special certificate of congratulations signed by Susan Halliday.