Veteran teacher Tania Bruckner said while governments and the media were often hung up on data and testing, it was not always the best way to evaluate success.

“The media is a lot about ATARS and testing and changing the curriculum. None of that is really what I think makes a difference in education,” she said.

“It’s more what happens in the classroom.”

Mrs Bruckner said she was worried about the focus on averages and trends. 

“What we should be focusing on is progress. If we can show a student their writing has improved, or a parent their child has made progress on the learning continuum, then we have plenty to celebrate,” she said.

“Valuing teachers and giving them more time to work on their craft is the key to improving outcomes for students, rather than changing the curriculum or implementing more testing.” 

Mrs Bruckner, a teacher at Mercy Regional College, made the comments after accepting the 2018 Diocesan Award for Fullness of Life, which recognised her leadership role in teaching over her past six years at the school.

A teacher for 30 years, many of those at Terang College, Mrs Bruckner has taught students from prep to year 12, but now also spends time outside the classroom on programs to improve teacher practice.

She said building strong relationships was one of the most important aspects of the job.

“Without positive relationships, learning is difficult. Good teaching is about care and conversations. Listening is as important at talking,” she said.

“Everybody can think about a passionate teacher that taught them and it was all about the relationships first and the learning follows after that.

“Teachers can have a powerful impact on their students, right from when they begin in prep, to when they leave us as young adults. We share a significant responsibility in preparing them for life after school.”

Mrs Bruckner describes her favourite days as those spent in the classroom.

“I just love the interaction with the kids. My best days are when I’ve taught all day with the kids,” she said.

“It’s a great job, I love it. The relationships with the kids and the families are the best parts of the job.”

Fellow Mercy Regional College teachers Leanne Carpenter and Lesa Thornton were given 30-year service awards.