South Thornlie Primary School science teacher Larissa Waghorn has been honoured by her peers, receiving an award from the Professional Teaching Council of Western Australia.
The award was for her work with the Science Teachers Association of Western Australia, in particular her work on a robust assessment tool, Science Teaching Assessment and Recording Tracker (START).
Ms Waghorn said the program, which has the potential to be rolled out right across schools in WA, was designed to accurately track the progress of both science students and teachers.
“It can track students right across their primary school studies, and it will show exactly where you need to improve,” she said.
“That goes for both students and teachers.
“In some instances poor results might indicate that the students just don’t understand a concept, and in other circumstances perhaps they haven’t been given a good enough opportunity to show that they understand a concept.
“So it has the potential to really benefit science teachers across the state.
“STAWA are marketing it now, so I’m hoping it gets picked up by schools.
“It’s nice knowing something you did is having a positive impact.”
President of the Professional Teaching Council of Western Australia (PTCWA) Dr Barbara Combes described Ms Waghorn as an outstanding awardee
“Her work with the Science Teachers’ Association of Western Australia helps to build a community of practice networks amongst teachers and school communities so everyone may benefit from expert knowledge.
“The recognition by her peers is testament to a person who is prepared to take their knowledge and expertise out to the community and turn it into practical solutions. I commend Larissa for her dedication and hard work.”
