The Emmaus Award recognises the significant service and contribution made by its recipients in various areas across Maitland-Newcastle’s Catholic schools.
“Receiving this award was truly an overwhelming feeling,” Ms Kinloch said of the honour. “I do this job because I love teaching, I love working with students and I love the feeling of making a difference.”
Of her role at St Joseph’s College, Lochinvar, Ms Kinloch said: “I think the most rewarding part is the freedom to be innovative and enthusiastic inside the classroom.
“There is something very special about St Joseph’s College, Lochinvar and, as a teacher this early into my career, it has inspired me to create and explore, particularly in my role as leader of learning technologies.
“At the end of the day, teaching is for the benefit of the students and I love getting to explore my passion for mathematics with the students, especially when we get to incorporate technology.”
Liz Stokes, Assistant Principal at St Joseph’s, credits Ms Kinloch’s success to her unique style of teaching.
“Sandra is a dedicated and passionate professional who promotes a positive approach to learning in every mathematics class,” Ms Stokes said. “She has the ability to engage all learners and develop a love of mathematics with all students.
“Sandra inspires her students with her bubbly nature and can make lessons relevant for all students, from those studying extension mathematics to those who need assistance developing their numeracy skills.”
But Ms Kinloch’s contributions extend beyond the classroom and into the lives of her peers.
“Sandra is generous with her time and efforts, always making time to assist staff if they are experiencing difficulties and need some help,” Ms Stokes said.
“She is a valued member of the mathematics faculty, always looking for new resources and for innovative methods of delivering curriculum, both in mathematics and software design and development.
“In her role as leader of learning technologies, Sandra leads and creates a contemporary environment at St Joseph's through teamwork, creativity and excellent organisation. Sandra inspires staff with her passion for education and her ability to bring joy into every day.”
Background to the Emmaus awards
The Catholic Schools Office established the Emmaus Awards to recognise, affirm and celebrate the significant contribution made by the recipients to aspects of excellence in Catholic schooling in the Diocese of Maitland—Newcastle. Each year, eight Emmaus plaques are presented by the Bishop and Director of Catholic Schools at the Called to Serve Mass. Over 2,000 staff are eligible to receive an award, which makes receiving one very significant. Recipients must be nominated by their colleague, and a panel then reviews all submissions. In total there are six award categories, including four categories that pertain to educators, as well as a category recognises contributions made by schools’ support staff including cleaners, pastoral care workers and grounds people and finally, one for an entire school community. In addition to receiving a plaque, individuals also receive a $2000 certificate and the winning school community receives $1000 to be used towards educational resources.
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