Staff Gratitude awards

Earlier this year, our Year 12 students launched the Staff Gratitude Awards to recognise and celebrate Farrer staff members who go above and beyond for our community. The initiative now includes other year groups, giving more students the chance to thank the staff who make a real difference to their school lives.

Year 10’s Award to Mr Michael Parker
Year 10 presented their award to Mr Michael Parker for his unwavering commitment to Farrer 16’s Rugby and his dedication to supporting students both in and out of the classroom. His enthusiasm, encouragement, and leadership have left an incredible mark on the team and the wider school community.

Year 8’s Award to Ms Jamie BaileyYear 8 student Nate Powell described their choice beautifully:
“This term, Year 8 have had the privilege of nominating a teacher or staff member for the Staff Gratitude Award, who has worked above and beyond their role. This staff member has helped throughout the year, assisting and helping struggling students with work in and out of school hours. They let everyone have their say and opinion, which makes students feel like they are included in everything there is to offer.If someone needs help with an assessment task, they won't hesitate to help. They work hard no matter what the cause, making everything work for us as a year group, giving every single one of us the opportunity to learn to the best of our ability, and pushes us to make our ambitions possible.

Every day we turn up to school, they always have a smile on their face. They always have time, even just for a chat about how things are going and what you're going to do on the weekend, at home or at school.We’ve chosen someone who works really hard and spends time creating a comfortable and safe environment for our growing adolescent minds, and creating a year group that is cooperative and works competently together. All of Year 8 could certainly agree that this award goes to someone who really deserves to be commended for their effort towards everything that gets thrown their way.

The Staff Gratitude Award from Year 8 goes to one of our Year Coordinators, Ms Bailey.”

In addition to the Staff Gratitude awards, we would also like to acknowledge a very special presentation made today.

Last week was Public Education Week, during which Mr Darren Smith was recognised for his outstanding contribution and service to Farrer. We proudly celebrate Mr Darren Smith for his exceptional 25+ years of service at Farrer. Darren’s pioneering Animal Studies course, centred on the White Suffolk stud, offers students hands-on learning and real-world industry connections. A true innovator, he’s introduced student-led auctions, mentored staff, coached football, and helped build one of Australia’s most respected studs with global reach.

As a leader on the White Suffolk Association board and the Leading Breeders Group, Darren’s expertise and dedication have left an enduring legacy at Farrer, in public education, and across the sheep industry.