Children’s Week Awards 2024

• Child and Youth Awards
• Youth Awards
• Special Children’s Week Award
• Adult Award
• Play Awards
• Minister for Education Awards
• Primary School Awards
• Secondary School Awards

Given for outstanding and consistent contributions to the needs, interests and welfare of children.

Recipients:

Indi Doyle & Shaelyn Tonkin-Smith

Nominated by Travis Braithwaite, Assistant Principal, Keithcot Farm Primary School

Citation

Presented to Indi Doyle and Shaelyn Tonkin-Smith for their leadership in numerous initiatives within the school community. These include a Women’s and Children’s Hospital Charity Drive, providing toys, entertainment and games for children in the hospital. They also organised a Bake Sale to fund the start of a school Environment Club, which focusses on litter collection and garden maintenance. Their initiatives and actions have inspired other students to join their efforts.

In recognition of a young person who shows courage, strength, perseverance and a cheerful attitude in the face of adversity.

Recipients:

Brooklyn Evans

Nominated by Helen Dunlop, Principal, Largs Bay School

Citation

Presented to Brooklyn Evans in recognition of his outstanding persistence and resilience in dealing with a range of personal disabilities and restrictions which affect his day to day life and schooling. He is a valuable class member who enthusiastically joins in social situations and does not want to be treated differently from his peers. Despite disabilities and restrictions Brooklyn participates in all school activities showing great persistence and resilience.

Brock Birmingham

Nominated by Laura Constable, Classroom Teacher, Karrendi Primary School

Citation

Presented to Brock Birmingham in recognition of his courage and perseverance every day in the face of adversity. His determination and ongoing ability to face his challenges with an attitude of ‘just let me try’, demonstrates his resilience and strength which motivates those around him and inspires other children facing numerous challenges.

Ksenia Wade

Nominated by Cassandra Wilsdon, Primary School Support Officer

Citation

Presented to Ksenia Wade in recognition of the enthusiasm and courage she has shown in transitioning to high school despite her struggles with everyday life situations. She has joined the soccer and volleyball teams, the choir and successfully auditioned for the school musical. Ksenia is seen as gutsy, humorous, witty, artistic and musical and always displays a positive attitude to life despite the difficulties she faces daily.

In recognition of a young person who shows courage, strength, perseverance and a cheerful attitude in the face of adversity.

Recipients:

Jakob McIntyre

 Nominated by Amy Farquharson, Classroom Teacher, Dernancourt Primary School

 Citation

 Presented to Jakob McIntyre in recognition of his strength, courage, resilience and positive attitude whilst coping with various health issues and disabilities. Jakob endures multiple hospital visits and experiences a range of treatment which changes according to needs. When unable to attend school, he embraced new technologies such as learning via an online platform and learning folder, and continued to impress with his unwavering optimistic outlook and academic and social progress at school.

Given for outstanding and consistent contributions to the needs, interests and welfare of children.

Recipients:

Gulf and Ranges Optometrists

Nominated by Reece Brennan, Support Worker, Communities for Children, Uniting Country SA

Citation

Presented to Gulf and Ranges Optometrists in recognition of their contribution to children’s eyecare. Staff at the practice have completed additional study in Early Childhood Vision Development, and Vision Assessment for Children with Disabilities. They provide appropriate child friendly environments for consultations as well as an outreach service to regional and remote towns in the mid-north of South Australia, thus negating the need for lengthy and time consuming travel to appointments.

Rebecca Blunn

Nominated by Playgroup SA

Citation

Presented to Rebecca Blunn in recognition of her contribution to supporting playgroups across South Australia to embrace enriching, inclusive and supportive environments where every child can thrive. Her strong focus on community development and mentorship has empowered coordinators to confidently lead playgroups that meet the diverse needs of families and communities.

Gill Holton

Nominated by Renae Kennewell, My Time Manager, Women’s & Children’s Health Network

Citation

Presented to Gill Holton in recognition of her voluntary contribution to My Time Play and Torrens House, and as a valued member of the Women’s & Children’s Health Network Volunteer Advisory Group. By caring and playing with children with disabilities, complex medical needs and additional needs, Gill has provided opportunities for families to access other necessary and essential medical and family services.

Pat Jolly

Nominated by Jo Swift, Student Wellbeing Leader, Christie Downs Primary School

Citation

Presented to Pat Jolly in recognition of his ongoing passion and commitment to the Odyssey outdoor learning program at Christie Downs Primary School. Pat’s innovative approach involves students in the planning, preparation and organization of physical education activities which also foster resilience, curiosity and respect for the environment. A wide range of excursions assists with providing opportunities for problem-based learning, and social and emotional wellbeing.

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Honourable Mention:

Ruby Turner

Nominated by Berlinda Carroll, Teacher, Roxby Downs Area School

Citation

Presented to Ruby Turner in recognition of her effort in revitalizing the Roxby Downs Area School Library. After years of lacking a consistent library employee, Ruby has volunteered and created a range of recess time activities to suit a wide variety of student interests. She has also injected enthusiasm into Book Week activities and managed to involve Primary, Middle and Senior students and staff in the event.

Recognises a significant contribution to the development of children’s play.

Recipient:

Dads Group Organisation & Dads Group of Gawler for New First Time Dads.

Nominated by Kim Wright, Community Development Coordinator, Gawler Children’s Centre

Presented to Dads Group Organisation & Dads Group of Gawler for New First Time Dads, in recognition of the support they provide to fathers, babies and families. An Innovative Dads Connect Digital Online Workshops and Webinars Program has also been established enabling easier access to the group and support for fathers and babies.

Kate Robertson & Katie Steele

Nominated by Emma Sordillo, Playgroup SA

Citation

Presented to Kate Robertson and Katie Steele in recognition of facilitating PlayConnect Plus Playgroup at Keithcot Farm, Darlington and Lockleys. They show outstanding commitment to promoting play for families with children aged 0 to 5 years, particularly children with disabilities, developmental delays and behavioral concerns. The playgroup provides a safe haven where families can connect, share experiences and find the support they need to navigate the complexities of raising a child with special needs.

These awards are offered as part of the Children’s Week celebration for children who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in any endeavor including academic, community service, sport, arts and personal challenge.

It is not every year the committee receives a nomination it considers to be outstanding and distinguished from all others. In 2024 the committee received such a nomination and decided to make a special presentation for endeavours in personal challenges associated with advocating and assisting with special needs children.

Maddie and Paige Bull

Nominated by Sue Clark, Assistant Principal Inclusive Education, Nuriootpa High School

Citation

Presented to Maddie and Paige Bull in recognition of their exemplary service and commitment to excellence in caring for their younger sister who has an Intellectual Disability, Cerebral Palsy, and Quadriplegia with Dystonia Epilepsy. On a daily basis Maddie and Paige take their sister to school, settle her in and attend to her many requirements during the day including knowing her medical needs, appointments and recommendations and how to set-up her essential equipment. They participate in her speech sessions, advocate for her and support her in advocating for herself. As well as this, they both support other students with care and compassion, especially students with disabilities. Their advocacy for their sister and other students with disabilities is outstanding.

Linda Wu

Nominated by Melissa Evans, Principal, Norwood Primary School

Citation

Presented to Linda Wu in recognition of being an exemplary role model for all students at the school. She is highly motivated academically and shows perseverance and determination in all tasks including supporting her peers in their learning. She excels in the music and performing arts area and is an accomplished pianist who inspires others. She is also a valued member of the school netball team.

Fiona Ryan

Nominated by Daniel Ryan, Student Wellbeing Leader, Kapunda Primary School

Citation

Presented to Fiona Ryan in recognition of her contribution to the positive wellbeing of the students, school and community. She established a lunchtime science club which is attended by many children, and has extended this to visiting the local kindergarten and doing science experiments with young children. She has run multiple competitions and fund raisers, including a fundraiser for the homeless.

Amicah van Coller

Nominated by Sally Davidson, Teacher, Risdon Park Primary School

Citation

Presented to Amica van Coller in recognition of her achievements in leadership, academics, athletics and the arts. Amicah excels across all subject areas and has been a participant in the Children’s University Program in 2023 and 2024. She is a member of the school choir and performed as a soloist in both 2023 and 2024. She has represented the school in SAPSASA netball and athletics attaining bronze, silver and gold medals in various events.

Jade Lovett

Nominated by Jo Swift, Student Wellbeing Leader, Christie Downs Primary School

Citation

Presented to Jade Lovett in recognition of her leadership, resilience in overcoming adversity, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of her peers. Jade has overcome significant adversity in her own life and as School Captain takes a proactive approach to supporting and mentoring fellow students, whilst at all times promoting the schools values of teamwork, respect and responsibility.

Brianna Cheong

Nominated by Nadine Schofield, Teacher, East Adelaide School

Citation

Presented to Brianna Cheong in recognition of her exceptional abilities in music, academics and debating. Brianna is a skilled violinist and pianist and blends technical skills and emotional interpretations as she plays for school performances and sometimes wider audiences. She has a love for learning in all academic areas and in debating shows strong communication skills, critical thinking and the ability to argue persuasively.

Hollie Preston

Nominated by Milly Hoffmann, Agricultural Co-ordinator, Nuriootpa High School

 Citation

Presented to Hollie Preston in recognition of her work promoting agricultural education as well as her commitment to community service. As an active member of the school’s Livestock Club she took the initiate to secure sponsorship and funding for agricultural projects within the school. Hollie represented her school nationally and internationally as she participated in International Dairy Week. She has appeared on “Behind the News” where she discussed sheep and wool judging and she has engaged with diverse audiences as a school and agricultural ambassador. She also regularly volunteers at school and community functions.

Tara Vivar-Hayes

 Nominated by Karina Van De Wiel, Assistant Principal, Wirreanda Secondary School

 Citation

Presented to Tara Vivar-Hayes in recognition of her leadership, collaboration and communication within her school community. Tara is a strong voice and advocate for Aboriginal Education and Aboriginal students at Wirreanda and always communicates with respect and honesty while providing a student perspective on matters or issues. She is a participant in SAASTA and STARS and encourages and supports younger students to engage in the programs.

Nikki Pfitzner

Nominated by Clinton Ridgway, Principal, Berri Regional Secondary College

Citation

Presented to Nikki Pfitzner in recognition of her commitment to the local community where she consistently volunteers her time and energy across a range of community settings, showing genuine commitment to serving others. She coaches the Berri Under-7 netball team and mentors and inspires the players. She has also shown initiate and creativity by designing, planning and proposing book libraries around Berri, which highlights her ability to translate ideas into actionable plans that benefit others.

Indulee Jayawardena

Nominated by Kelly Spalding, Assistant Principal, The Heights School

Citation

Presented to Indulee Jayawardena in recognition of her academic excellence and leadership within the school. She is a member of the school’s Student Representative Council, Senior School Forum and a Senior School Governing Council representative. She understands the importance of building capacity in others and leaving her community in a position to build a positive legacy. She leads by example, acting as a positive role model for his peers which has contributed considerably to a change in school culture.