Minyerri School’s Claire Vogan is one of 10 winners of the inaugural Early Careers Teaching Awards from across Australia for their steadfast leadership and commitment to their students and communities.

Shortlisted from more than 400 educators, Ms Vogan will be acknowledged as one of the country’s most inspiring teachers in the 2022 Commonwealth Bank Teaching Awards.

“I am extremely lucky to have the opportunity to work with the community here out bush,” Ms Vogan said. “To be able to advocate for rural and remote communities in Australia means so much to me. The grant from CBA and Schools Plus will help me to further pursue my mission to connect our communities.”

The Commonwealth Bank Teaching Awards, in partnership with Australian Schools Plus, recognise the contributions of teachers and school leaders to help build a brighter future for Australian students. It is also the largest national program to acknowledge excellence in education.

Launched in 2016, the Awards are run annually to recognise and reward teachers and school leaders across Australia with a $45,000 Teaching Fellowship to fund a strategic program in their school and provide unique opportunities for professional development.

This year also saw the introduction of a new awards category for teachers in the first five years of their profession. Ten Early Career Teachers who have the commitment, potential and passion to make a significant impact in classrooms have received $10,000 for professional development and mentoring.

Commonwealth Bank head of community investment Luke Schepen said these educators, some who faced devastating natural disasters and ongoing classroom disruptions due to COVID, were quick to adopt innovative and resilient education practices that fostered a personal connection with students.

“Teachers and educators play such a vital role in preparing the next generation to meet the demands of an evolving workforce, economy and society,” Mr Schepen said.

Schools Plus is a national not-for-profit that helps children facing disadvantages succeed at school.

“We are delighted to celebrate these inspirational teachers, who share our commitment to addressing the education gap in areas of disadvantage, particularly over the past two challenging years. Schools Plus is proud to support schools and teachers who have shown innovation, resilience and tireless commitment to their students,” Schools Plus chief executive officer Rosemary Conn said.