Oakleigh Grammar has announced that its Head of Junior School, Shelley Parkes has been awarded two prestigious accolades.
Shelley has been named as a winner of The Educator Magazine’s Most Influential Educators Award and in addition, has received an Excellence Award and is a finalist for Primary School Principal of the Year – Non-government, with the overall winner to be announced later in the year.
In the category of Most Influential Educators in Australia, Shelley was recognised for her clear vision and reimagined approach and delivery to learning and teaching across the Junior School by designing the unique ‘Quartet Model’. The model harnesses creativity and innovation at its core, and ensures students transition seamlessly from the Early Learning Centre through Junior School and into Middle School in Year 6.
During the first pandemic-impacted year of remote learning and teaching in Melbourne, Shelley understood how to make the best use of remote learning.
Her devotion and strong desire to see all students achieve, allowed a remote learning model that was creative, responsive and flexible to meet the needs of individual students during what proved to be a period of transitioning into and out of remote learning for two years.
The Quartet Model allowed for the curriculum to run parallel whether on-site or remote, providing continuity for the staff and students, which met the expectations of parents for their child’s continued learning.
“I am encouraged daily by Shelley’s boundless positivity and energy,” said Principal of Oakleigh Grammar, Mark Robertson.
“The development of the Quartet Model that sustained live face-to-face teaching each and every day was creative and responsive…Shelley ensured there was flexibility for parents and teachers to meet the needs of individual students, and has successfully built a culture of connectedness, transparency and honesty”.
Shelley’s volunteer work also contributed to her recognition as a Most Influential Educator. She has worked with Indigenous communities in Darwin and local charity organisations closer to home.
“I am humbled to have been recognised in this way,” says Ms Parkes.
“The students influence all that I do and the staff walks with me to ensure our students are central to each and every decision we make as educators. I am privileged to work with such an incredible community.”
