Published 17 Nov 2023
2023 Victorian Early Years Awards winners announced
The Minister for Children has announced the winners of the 2023 Victorian Early Years Awards on Thursday 9 November, at an online awards ceremony hosted by Myf Warhurst.
Eight organisations and two individuals have been recognised for their achievements and contributions to leadership, outstanding achievement and innovation in improving outcomes for Victorian children and their families.
Winners of each category will receive a grant of $15,000 for professional development or to support their nominated initiative.
The VIT would like to congratulate the following registered teacher and all remaining winners and finalists in the 2023 Victorian Early Years Awards.
Early Childhood Teacher of the Year
Awarded to an early childhood teacher who demonstrates evidence-based innovation and exemplary practice in early childhood education, and making a significant contribution to the development and delivery of high-quality early childhood education programs that improve learning and development outcomes for children.
Winner - Rachael Gemmil
Glen Education Glover Street Kindergarten
Rachael Gemmill led her team at Glen Education Glover Street Kindergarten to exceed in all 7 areas of the National Quality Standard for education and care. With a Masters of Inclusion, her commitment to cultivating a workplace culture that truly embraces inclusion and equality matches her determination to ensure that all children are provided with a quality education regardless of their support needs. This has enabled more children with complex needs to access support, resulting in improved outcomes.
Central to Rachael’s work is building strong social/emotional skills so she introduced the daily practice of gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness to support children’s ability to self-regulate across 16 of Glen Education’s services.
Rachael led the project across the organisation, gathering data from services, families, and local community members, providing professional development opportunities for the staff involved in delivering the practice, and engaging more than 1,200 children to teach them evidence-based strategies to build a toolbox to support their wellbeing.
Discover the full list of winners and categories.