Alumna wins New Zealand’s 2020 Prime Minister’s Science Teacher Award

Three people are standing. Sarah is in the centre holding a certificate and trophy.

Sarah Washbrooke from Remarkables Primary School in Queenstown, New Zealand has been selected as the 2020 Prime Minister’s Science Teacher Prize winner.

Sarah is a highly valued member of her school and the wider Wakatipu community, bringing her expertise in the Technology Curriculum to the forefront. She has taught at Remarkables Primary School since 2016 as their technology specialist teacher, supporting the development of students within the world of science and technology.

The alumna was nominated for the award by a high school teacher she had previously collaborated with, and the Chair of the Technology Education New Zealand (TENZ).

For the award Sarah had to demonstrate the impact of her teaching on students and other teachers across New Zealand.

In her acceptance speech Sarah used a whakatauki (Maori proverb), Poipoia te kākano kia puāwai, which translates as nurture the seed and it will blossom. She felt this resonated with her as a teacher, learner, colleague and mother.

Sarah said: 

I could not have achieved this award without the help, support and guidance of many teachers, colleagues, friends and family over the years.  

My time at Loughborough had great impact on my life, not only did I continue on to have a successful career utilising my degree but I also married one of my block mates from Rutherford hall! 

Sarah graduated with a degree in Industrial Design & Technology with Education in 1997. 

Congratulations to Sarah on winning this prestigious award. 

Find out more about the Prime Minister’s Science Prizes in New Zealand.