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In a career that spans 35 years, Michele Hockey has served the students and families of Central Coast Grammar School since 1996, making a profound contribution across diverse dimensions of school life during her 29 years. Now she has been nationally recognised and shortlisted for the Secondary School Teacher of the Year – Non Government award.

“I feel a deep sense of gratitude for being nominated by the executive of my school. It’s such a privilege to be put forward from such an amazing team here at CCGS. My students, their families and my colleagues inspire me every day.”

Michele is perhaps best known for her development of the School’s Cambodia Service program over 16 years, a comprehensive initiative engaging students, staff and parents in year-long fundraising that culminates in travelling to build homes for disadvantaged Khmer people. The deep understanding and holistic development that comes with this real-world service learning has launched generations of CCGS students into the world ready for real-world challenges having made a profound difference to hundreds of lives.

In the classroom Michele is recognised for her excellence in STEM (Science Technology Engineering Maths) teaching, and her deep passion for her subject and hunger for continual professional growth ensures her students enjoy rich educational experiences. The valuable networks she has fostered with CSIRO, university, and industry personnel through implementation of the Sydney Science Park STEM challenge have given her access to the latest scientific data and innovative classroom practice.

As a Wellbeing Coordinator she communicates daily with compassion on a range of wellbeing and academic issues. She is well known for the empathetic connections she develops with families and students, creating a sense of belonging and inclusion, often from the sporting sidelines through managing school basketball and hockey teams.

“Excellence sits at the heart of the work of our CCGS staff, and we are proud of Michele for receiving this accolade,” shared Headmaster Phil O’Regan. Michele is exemplary in each dimension of her work with students and community, and we are grateful for her passionate commitment to developing exceptional young people.” 

Hundreds of nationwide nominations were reviewed during February and March to select the award winners. Now a panel of expert judges will decide who will be named overall Secondary School Teacher of the Year – Non Government, at the Awards dinner at the Star Event Centre on 9 August.