STAFF WRITERS
NINA Portail, an Education Support Worker at the Berry Street School Morwell Campus, has been awarded the title of Victorian Teachers Aide of the Year.
This prestigious recognition highlights Nina’s outstanding contributions to the educational community and her profound impact on every student who crosses her path.
Nina was nominated for this honour by Berry Street Principal, Rebecca Robinson.
“Nina has an exceptional work ethic and dedication to providing students with the opportunities they need to thrive, achieve, and belong in a range of educational settings,” Ms Robinson said.
“Her commitment is evident in her ability to adapt and meet the unique and often challenging circumstances of our students.
“We are incredibly proud of Nina’s recognition as Victorian Teachers Aide of the Year. Her dedication and passion for education are truly inspiring and have made a significant difference in our school. This award is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her hard work and contributions.”
In her role, Nina has significantly enhanced student learning and wellbeing through her
involvement with the literacy intervention program, MacqLit. Nina specifically tailored this program to support individual needs which has seen a significant improvement in literacy skills as well as simultaneously addressing students’ complex emotional needs.
Nina added that she feels very lucky to work alongside amazing educators and wellbeing staff who are dedicated to bettering the school experiences of young people.
“Their enthusiasm, adaptability, sense of fun and shared belief in our students is highly motivating,” she said.
“I enjoy being part of a team that truly aims to understand the needs of our students, and that works to meet them through tailored support and intervention program. Our goal is to ensure every young person can feel a sense of achievement and belonging, and feels safe to be themselves.
“Celebrating our students’ strengths and honouring their lived experience is important, as is supporting our students through challenging days, with the aim that they feel safe and reassured that they will be welcomed back.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is witnessing students gain confidence in their academic, emotional, and social abilities. We have seen students who have faced significant barriers to accessing education, or who may have previously felt shame or frustration around literacy, experience considerable growth in this area.”
