Top independent school teachers win teaching awards

Three of the best teachers at independent schools in New Zealand were honoured last week.

Independent Schools of New Zealand (ISNZ) awarded Philip Lee (ACG Senior College), Harold Russ (Kings College) and Susan Porter (St Cuthbert's College) Excellence in Teaching awards in its second annual awards.

"New Zealand has some of the world's best teachers, and ISNZ wanted to acknowledge those special teachers who work in independent schools," said ISNZ executive director Joy Quigley.

"This year's winners are leaders, nationally, in their fields and teachers of enormous quality."

• Philip Lee, English teacher (Years 11-13), was described as an exceptional and gifted teacher with a commitment to excellence and critical thinking.
  
  
• Harold Russ, Technology teacher (Years 7-10), was described as "one of those very rare 'expert' teachers" and was always prepared to go beyond the call of duty.
  
  
• Susan Porter, (Years 0-6), had a "very warm, caring classroom environment" with "excellent planning and exciting programmes that give the students a love of school and learning".

The teachers won $2,000 cash as well as registration and travel to ISNZ's annual conference. Award sponsors were Konica Minolta, Distinction Furniture and Fisher and Paykel Finance.

ISNZ's annual conference web page is at this address.