Ruth Chambers: A Finalist in the Education Excellence Awards

WONTHAGGI Primary School teacher Ruth Chambers is a finalist in the 2023 Victorian Education Excellence Awards which was announced this morning by Minister for Education Ben Carroll.

A finalist for the Outstanding Primary Teacher award, Ruth has been recognised for her enduring dedication to enriching the musical and cultural education of students at Wonthaggi Primary School by incorporating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives.

Ruth has developed programs of song and dance that bring Wonthaggi Primary School together to work alongside Senior Boon Wurrung Elder, Aunty Fay Stewart-Muir incorporating music, language, and games from the Boon Wurrung community.

Modelling best practice in cultural awareness, Ruth’s approach is enriched by her lived experience of working in Aboriginal communities. Initiating and now leading the Cultural Awareness team, Ruth is supporting staff to embed their knowledge of Koorie perspectives within their classrooms and daily practices.

Ruth’s musical and cultural leadership has created a celebratory engagement with Koorie knowledge at the school that is bringing great joy and new awareness to staff, students, and their families.

Award winners will be announced on Friday October 27.