Two long-serving Bellarine teachers are being recognised for their dedication to their schools, students and families.
St Leonards Primary School’s Christine Layley celebrated 45 years of teaching with a Recognition of Service to Victorian Education honour.
Ms Layley has worked with the St Leonards Primary School for 10 years and said the honour was a great way to mark the teaching milestone before her retirement.
“Being the eldest of a large family, you naturally look out for others, and… I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher,” she said.
“Sometimes we (teachers) don’t always receive positive recognition, which is humbling but a nice milestone to mark.
“In all the schools that I’ve worked in, it’s that collaborative spirit and approach to doing the best thing for the students and their families that I love the most.
“I have decided that after this milestone, that at the end of the year I’ll leave. So, it’s been a good opportunity for me to reflect on my career and leave on a positive note.”
Leopold Primary School’s Cheryl Hair was also recognised for her 40 years of service to public education during the honour.
Minister for Education Ben Carroll said 275 school staff statewide were being honoured this year for 40, 45, 50 and 55 years of service to public education.
“Long-serving teachers and support staff are the backbone of our education system, and I congratulate those being honoured this year on their well-deserved recognition,” he said.
“I know everyone in Bellarine join us in offering their congratulations to these dedicated professionals, who have spent decades tirelessly supporting our children and young people.”
