Caltex and Rotary Club of Sydney Awards for Innovation in Teaching

2006 Awards Winners

The winning teachers of the 2006 Caltex and Rotary Club of Sydney Awards for Innovation in Teaching are:

• Cheryl Bazzano of Rivendell School for Specific Purposes in Concord West, Sydney
• Lee Casuscelli of Our Lady Help of Christians Parish Primary School in Rosemeadow, Sydney
• Bill Dorman of Mulwaree High School in Goulburn

These teachers were recognised for their innovative contributions to teaching at a Rotary Club of Sydney luncheon on 14 November 2006.

Cheryl Bazzano of Rivendell School for Specific Purposes in Concord West, Sydney
Ms Bazzano created the Sulman Program as an alternative educational pathway for high school students unable to deal with the rigours of mainstream school life. Anxiety, depression and social phobia render some adolescents unable to attend school for long periods. The Sulman Program offers such students hands-on help to develop their skills and reach their academic goals.

Through a structured program of part-time attendance, flexible study options, personal support and graded social exposure, program participants are nurtured into succeeding at school and building a pathway to a career. In the three years since the program’s inception, many students have completed their School Certificate, some have attained their HSC and one student currently attends university.

Lee Casuscelli of Our Lady Help of Christians Parish Primary School in Rosemeadow, Sydney
Mrs Casuscelli’s program,Tool Time, builds on her years of experience teaching children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Such children experience profound socialisation difficulties due to their fluctuating responses to sensory stimuli. Through fun-filled, interactive play sessions, the program equips these students with the tools they need to function more effectively in life.

Tool Time is structured and operates at different levels to meet the changing needs of its participants. Participants develop increased confidence, flexibility in thinking and socially acceptable responses to stimuli. This, in turn, leads to effective learning and better relationships. Tool Time extends beyond the classroom, offering access to networks for parents and siblings of children with autism and supporting teachers.

Bill Dorman of Mulwaree High School in Goulburn
Mr Dorman created Owning Our School in response to adolescent mental health issues. The art-metalwork program allows participants to get physical as they create dramatic metal and mosaic sculptures. Some seventy of the students’ creations are on display in Mulwaree High, transforming the grey school buildings. Owning Our School artwork can also be found beyond the school grounds – the team recently completed a major fence project for a nearby school.

Program participants acquire a range of skills, and learn about control, balance and aesthetics. Through their visible achievements they develop self confidence and are proud of their respected contribution to their school.