The Foster Adem Award for Leadership in Technologies Education – Peter Murphy, Ex-Northcote High School, RMIT, La Trobe University, Southern Cross University

Peter Murphy was chosen for his exceptional work as a leader in the field, contributing to curriculum development, political advocacy and showcasing a progressive and inclusive approach to Design & Technologies education. He is the creator of National Design & Technologies Week and the TechX Student Design Challenge, and has lead the battle to tackle the shortage of D&T teachers in Victoria. Peter is now lecturing in Initial Teacher Education and Industrial Design, and is beginning his own journey as a researcher as he prepares to start a PhD on innovative approaches to design education.

Secondary Educator of the Year Award – Ian Hoffman, St. Monica's College Epping

Congratulations to Ian Hoffman from St. Monica's College Epping. Ian was nominated for this award not only by a teaching colleague but by two of his students! He was chosen for the work he has done to grow Systems Engineering at school, and his commitment to helping his students excel. As his student Frank wrote, "Mr Hoffman makes each and every class engaging by creating amazing resources... He starts class discussions about relevant systems engineering topics and the whole class is always inputting into them and sharing knowledge. I'm always motivated to do the work for his class. "

Primary Educator of the Year Award – Matt La Franchi, Bacchus March Grammar

Matt LaFranchi from Bacchus March Grammar is the winner of the 2021 primary award, who was nominated for his innovative approaches to using new technologies in the classroom. "Matt has developed a primary curriculum which is aimed at building confidence in students across a range of platforms. He creates tasks which allow all students to experience success at coding, 3D modelling, 3D printing, and robotics...Matt also fuses the worlds of art, design, CAD & CAM, and digital technologies into student projects.” His support for his colleagues in the use of technology was always noted – particularly those who are new to the area. 

Congratulations also to the following educators who were shortlisted for our 2021 awards:

• Michael Slinger from St. Leonard's College
• Robert Forbes from Bendigo South East College
• Ben Green from St. Leonard's College
• Dean Hamer from Nagle College
• Michael Abrahams from Marcellin College
• Tim Barlow from St. Leonard's College
• Norman Burke from St. Leonard's College
• Gaetano Carusso from Parade College