It was her own grade 5 teacher who inspired a life-long love of learning, and cemented her career path in education. 

Mrs Milbourne’s passion for teaching has now been recognised by the John Laing Professional Development Award, one of just four principals statewide who received the national award this year.

The peer-nominated award is named in honour of Tasmanian principal John Laing, who drove professional learning across Australia and led cross-sector learning for principals.

“I am very humbled by the award because I stand in the company of many wonderful educators who have been recipients,” Mrs Milbourne said.

“I also am delighted because ongoing professional learning is something very dear to my heart.”

Formerly employed at the Professional Learning Institute, Mrs Milbourne said the “joy and challenge” of the job is keeping a love of learning alive in young pupils to prepare them for an unknown future.

Any teacher who has an opportunity to learn new skills is expected to share those new skills and techniques with the entire staff, keeping a sense of enthusiasm and development alive in both teachers and pupils.

“Our jobs as educators are highly responsible and highly privileged,” Mrs Milbourne said.

“That teacher that I had in grade 5 would have no idea the impact of my year with her on the trajectory that my life and my journey has taken.

“It’s such a responsibility and one I treasure and am conscious of all the time.”