Brooke Topelberg’s students are so keen on science that her lunch-time science club has a waiting list.

And Jane Wright has been taking high school girls to explore science in the bush for over 25 years.

Both of these passionate professionals have been awarded a Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching.

Brooke was only three years out from an education degree when she was appointed science coordinator of her primary school in Westminster—a suburb in Perth, Western Australia, that is home to many immigrant families.

As she set about making science a priority in the school, she was introduced to the concept of using puppets as a non-threatening, inclusive way to teach science and other difficult topics.

“I immediately recognised that these teaching methods would work wonders in the classroom.”

Within five years, due largely to Brooke’s drive and leadership, not only is her lunch-time science club booked out, but also Westminster Primary School was named Western Australia’s Science School of the Year.

Dr Jane Wright entered her profession to gain teaching experience after doing postdoctoral studies—ever since, she’s been inspiring generations of young women at Adelaide’s Loreto College.

In 2011, Jane coordinated her 26th week-long, annual camp in the Flinders Ranges for 90 Year 11 girls and 13 staff—the girls leave their mobile phones at home and instead take water samples, examine rock formations and learn about biodiversity.

In 2012, Jane will hold teacher workshops on applying for teaching awards, especially the Prime Minister’s Science Prizes.

“It’s important that teachers have the confidence to apply for prizes that recognise their achievements.”

Photo: 2011 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools winner, Brooke Topelberg, with students.

Credit: Prime Minister’s Science Prizes/Bearcage

Photo: 2011 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools winner, Jane Wright.

Credit: Prime Minister’s Science Prizes/Bearcage

Westminster Primary School, Brooke Topelberg, Brooke.topelberg@det.wa.edu.au, bit.ly/p1uOks

Loreto College, Dr Jane Wright, Jane.wright@loreto.sa.edu.au, bit.ly/nrlQ8e