Celebrating Excellence in Teaching: Kathryn McGreal Recognised as a Highly Accomplished Teacher
Our Head of Music at Loreto Normanhurst, Kathryn McGreal, has been recognised as a Highly Accomplished Teacher by the NSW Education Standards Authority.
She had the wonderful opportunity to attend the HALT (Highly Accredited and Lead Teacher) Recognition Ceremony to collect her certificate and medal, held last month, at the State Library of NSW. Teachers from across the state who have achieved this accreditation were brought together, in celebration of their accomplishment.
The HALT accreditation is a voluntary national certification that recognises exemplary teaching practice and the development of collaborative methods within school communities. “Undertaking accreditation at the Highly Accomplished level has been one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences of my professional life,” reveals Kathryn.
Kathryn was involved in gathering evidence sets around the Standard Descriptors, while having her own teaching practice observed, observing others and mentoring colleagues in their own classroom practice, incorporating co-teaching into the process. This allows teachers to view their practice from multiple perspectives, both as the observer and the observed, and to reflect critically on how pedagogy can impact students.
Marco Scali, our Head of Professional Practice and Growth emphasises the importance of collaboration at Loreto, stating, “Our professional growth model is very much created with the HALT descriptors in mind, knowing that excellence in teaching comes from working closely with a diverse range of colleagues and finding opportunities to provide and receive constructive feedback on teaching practice.”
This recognition reflects Kathryn’s passion, dedication, and talent, which are evident in all that she does at Loreto Normanhurst – whether in the classroom, leading the Music Department, or inspiring students and staff through much-loved traditions such as our annual Music Festival.
At our school, we are committed to providing educational environments that promote continual growth and advancement, for both students and teachers. We believe in holistic learning practices, which encourage development across all facets of education and well-being, shaping a dynamic learning environment that nurtures creativity and excellence.
“Here, teachers see themselves as lifelong learners, journeying alongside their students. This shared philosophy creates a dynamic and inspiring environment—one that fosters innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement,” shares Kathryn.
The broader significance of Kathryn’s achievement of this accreditation is that it inspires other teachers to work towards this level. At Loreto, we currently have seven staff enrolled at this level of accreditation, working towards completion, with a few more teachers soon to begin. “Cultural change occurs through small successes that build momentum, so this community of teachers aspiring to work at the highly accomplished level is now building, knowing they will be supported through mentoring and coaching,” reflects Marco.
Congratulations to Kathryn on this outstanding achievement. Our community is proud to celebrate her success as a reflection of the excellence and spirit of Loreto Normanhurst.