As an educator in her first five years of teaching, Sophie Emerson from St Joseph’s Primary School, Gloucester, is being recognised for her outstanding contribution to student learning, literacy and school improvement.
Through the Growing Minds Inspiring Readers initiative, Sophie has created rich learning experiences that have connected students, families and the wider community through a shared love of literacy.
Beginning in Term 4, 2024, Sophie guided students in an inquiry into the World Heritage-listed Barrington Tops, exploring its unique flora and fauna while incorporating Indigenous perspectives from the Worimi and Biripi Peoples. The project encouraged students to develop a deeper understanding of place, culture and environmental stewardship.
Building on this learning, Sophie coordinated an Author-in-Residence week with acclaimed author and illustrator Sami Bayly in Term 1, 2025. Every student from Kindergarten to Year 6 played a role in creating Fire in the Tops, a professionally published picture book. Students collaborated on the storyline, writing and illustrations, experiencing the journey from idea to publication.
The project culminated in a community book launch, where students shared their work and performed an adaptation of the story for families and community members.
Beyond this initiative, Sophie has also led a School Improvement project focused on writing, strengthening assessment and feedback practices across the school.
Sophie’s work demonstrates the significant impact early career teachers can have on their students and school communities. Through innovative teaching, collaborative leadership and a commitment to meaningful learning experiences, she continues to inspire a love of learning while enriching the educational opportunities available to students at St Joseph’s.
