Teaching graduate wins education award

From starting his studies at the Park campus in Cheltenham, Andrew Rogers’ career has led him to be named as Australian Teacher of the Year at the 2021 Australian Education Awards.

He won the Secondary School Teacher of the Year (Non-Government) title at a virtual awards ceremony that recognised the schools and individuals driving positive change across the Australian education landscape.

Andrew studied a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Secondary Religious Education between September 1999 and July 2000 at the University, then known as the Cheltenham and Gloucester College of Higher Education.

After graduating from CGCHE in 2000, Andrew was appointed as teacher of Religious Education at Devizes School in Wiltshire. He then achieved the position of Head of Religious Studies, and then the Head of Ethics.

Currently, he teaches Philosophy and Ethics at Guildford Grammar school in Perth and is also the Chair of the Association for Philosophy in Schools, which supports teachers and academics to develop the teaching of Philosophy in Schools.

Reflecting on his time at the University, he said: “I loved the Park Campus and the collegiate atmosphere of my fellow student teachers on my course.

“My experiences while studying for the PGCE inspired and motivated me towards becoming a secondary school teacher. It widened my knowledge and understanding, exposed me to a range of differing viewpoints and helped me to realise my career vocation.

“The support and expertise of the staff and the practical school-based course provided a first-class preparation for the rigours of the teaching profession, with all of its challenges and successes.

“My advice to current and prospective students is follow your passions and your interests, wherever that may take you.”