STEMM Educator of the Year – Primary or Secondary School 2026 Finalists

It’s Miriam’s belief that as technology and work evolve, teaching science should go beyond transferring knowledge – it’s about equipping students with confidence, skills, and dispositions for an unpredictable future. In her classroom, students learn to be curious, open-minded, observant, and ask thoughtful questions. They develop strong inquiry and design thinking skills, and curiosity and interest in STEMM.

Recognised by the South Australian Science Teachers Association as a leader in primary science education, she connects students with real-world science, bringing scientists into the classroom and making science exciting and meaningful. Students gain the confidence to investigate and design practical solutions, seeing how their efforts can impact the world around them.

Miriam also involves the wider school community in student learning through student-led Science Expos and Open Nights, and these connections enrich the learning experience beyond the classroom and celebrate scientific discovery.

By establishing a robust foundation in STEMM learning at primary school, she helps students see themselves in STEMM fields, encouraging them to pursue challenging subjects, and equipping them with the confidence, skills and dispositions to contribute positively to their future learning, careers and communities.

Colleen O’Rourke is a Digital Technologies Lead certified (HALT) educator redefining how students learn in an increasingly complex, technology-driven world.

Working across primary and secondary education, she has developed the Nature Nurture Network, an innovative approach that reconnects students with the natural world while integrating digital technologies and artificial intelligence in meaningful ways. Her work supports students, including those who are neurodivergent, to build confidence, creativity and a strong sense of belonging through hands-on, purpose-driven learning.

Through global virtual reality exchange projects, Colleen’s students collaborate with peers worldwide, sharing their environments, cultures and sustainability challenges. This builds technical capability while fostering empathy, global awareness and a deep appreciation for the planet.

Beyond the classroom, Colleen leads artificial intelligence across her school and supports schools across South Australia and nationally in implementing innovative and responsible approaches to STEMM education. As Vice President of EdTechSA, she helps educators and leaders build capacity and confidence in emerging technologies.

Her impact has been recognised through multiple awards, including selection as a Global Teacher Prize Top 10 Finalist, acknowledging her contribution to education locally and internationally.