In a significant milestone for Xavier College and Catholic Education South Australia (CESA), Penny Bateman, the Gawler Belt Campus English Curriculum Leader, has been officially recognised as the 100th teacher in South Australia to receive Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HALT) certification.

This momentous achievement comes as part of the broader success of a cross-sector initiative that began a decade ago, aimed at certifying educators as Highly Accomplished and Lead Teachers across Catholic, public, and independent schools in South Australia. The initiative, overseen by the South Australian Teacher Certification Committee (SATCC), honours educators who demonstrate exceptional practice, engage in professional learning, and make significant contributions to the improvement of teaching and student outcomes.

As a newly certified HALT, Penny is now poised to mentor her colleagues at the College, sharing her expertise and supporting her department’s ongoing development of evidence-based teaching practices. This certification not only recognises her personal achievements but also enables her to drive professional growth among her peers, improving outcomes for all students at the College.

Reflecting on her certification, Penny shared, ‘in my journey to becoming the 100th Lead Teacher I became a learner once more. The process prompted me to acknowledge my own strengths and weaknesses and take charge of my own professional development. I can honestly say that I am a better faculty leader and a better teacher after going through this process. I love being an educator and my personal philosophy is that staff and students alike should approach the learning process with good humour and a sense of rigor.’

Penny’s certification marks a key moment for both the College and Catholic Education SA as the organisation continues to celebrate and promote excellence in teaching. The milestone was formally recognised in late September at a ceremony held at Adelaide Oval, marking the 10th anniversary of HALT. The event, attended by key stakeholders including Erin Thompson MP and Dr Neil McGoran, Executive Director of CESA, honoured 33 Catholic school educators who received their HALT certification or renewed their status.

Joining Penny in the celebrations, is Tamika Canala, who was the 98th teacher in South Australia to receive the HALT certification. A teacher at the Gawler Belt Campus as well, joins Penny and several other Xavier College educators who have achieved this certification. Penny and Tamika’s achievement is not just a personal triumph, but a reflection of the College’s commitment to fostering educational excellence and supporting the professional growth of its staff.

Xavier College is proud of Penny and Tamika’s achievement and looks forward to seeing the ongoing positive influence they will have as leaders in education.