Mount Carmel College Kindergarten teacher, Anne Haward was acknowledged for her outstanding service as an employee within Catholic Education.
After teaching at the school for 15 years, working with ‘little people’ hasn’t lost its sparkle for Mrs Haward.
“I’ve always taught in early childhood and now that I have been in Kinder for a number of years I feel that I have found my niche,” Mrs Haward said.
“With those little, wide eyed faces when they come in on the first day, it is just amazing the things you can do with them and their joy and enthusiasm for activities is wonderful.”
She said from the beginning of the educational journey the focus is on making sure children are given the best opportunity to live a positive life.
“My greatest hope for the children is that they develop resilience for their future lives,” she said.
“I believe Catholic Education offers students and families a supportive environment based on gospel values that contribute to a holistic education,” she said.
As an active member of the College community, Mrs Haward has also served as Treasurer for the College Parents and Friends Committee for the past 17 years and continues to be involved in College fundraising events.
“I love the collegiality of our staff and school,” Mrs Haward said.
She is also an active participant in the Holy Spirit Parish and the local community. At the parish level she is a special minister and a leader of the Children’s Liturgy. Outside school and parish life Mrs Haward volunteers with St Vincent de Paul’s Loui’s Van to support the marginalised in the community.
Mrs Haward said it was ‘humbling’ to be an award recipient because all teachers work so hard.