A passion for science and a love of inspiring young minds has seen St Andrew’s Anglican College Head of Science Abigail Blessing, today recognised as one of Australia’s most outstanding educators at the 31st National Excellence in Teaching Awards (NEiTA).

Abigail, who leads and teaches in the Science faculty at St Andrew’s in Peregian Springs, received the prestigious NEiTA Apple Award – Secondary, along with a $5,000 professional development grant from the NEiTA Foundation.

Over the past year, Abigail has reinvigorated the Science program at St Andrew’s, infusing it with energy, creativity and a genuine passion for helping students connect with science in hands-on and meaningful ways.

She has rewritten the Year 7 to 10 Science curriculum, launched College-wide science initiatives and events, introduced a team of student Science Ambassadors, and even secured a national grant to build a frog pond in the College’s Sustainability Garden.

“I was very surprised to be singled out… Teachers don’t do it for recognition,” Abigail said.

“I’m a STEM and science nerd and I love getting kids excited about the amazing world around them.

“I’m proud to be having a positive impact on my students and giving them the skills to go out and change the world for the better.”

Supporting Abigail at the awards presentation in Melbourne, College Principal Ms Karen Gorrie said the award reflects Abigail’s deep dedication to her students and her ability to make science come alive.

“Abi brings such energy and creativity into everything she does,” Ms Gorrie said.

“She inspires our students not just to learn about science, but to think like scientists — to question, explore and imagine solutions for the world’s challenges.”

Ms Gorrie added that Abigail’s leadership has helped shape a culture of discovery across the College.

“She has this wonderful ability to make complex ideas feel accessible and exciting. Her enthusiasm is infectious, both students and colleagues are drawn to her love of learning.”

NEiTA Foundation Chairperson Catherine O’Sullivan said educators like Abigail illustrate the profound impact of great teaching.

“Abigail is talented, passionate and a life-changing force in education,” Ms O’Sullivan said.

“She’s leaving a lasting mark on the lives of countless students, and the St Andrew’s community is stronger because of her ability to motivate, educate and inspire the next generation.”

Over more than three decades, NEiTA has recognised more than 1,120 exceptional educators and awarded over $1.4 million in professional development grants. The National Excellence in Teaching Awards, supported by Futurity Investment Group, is the longest-running awards program recognising teaching excellence in Australia and New Zealand. It uniquely allows parents and the wider community to say thank you to remarkable educators making a difference every day.