With innovative teaching practices, state of the art facilities and a vibrant co‐curricular programme, Westminster offers an array of opportunities that equip children with the skills and values necessary for life beyond the classroom.
Central to its educational philosophy is a belief in continuous professional development for its teaching team. Westminster School sets the benchmark in educational leadership through initiatives such as the Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HALT) accreditation programme.
This significant recognition honours educators who achieve the Highly Accomplished or Lead teacher levels of the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers – standards upheld by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership.
The HALT program provides a structured framework that encourages professional growth through evidence‐based teaching, reflective practices and constructive feedback from peers and children. Since 2019, 16 staff members have achieved certification as HALTs, with 10 assessments in progress and several others diligently working towards certification.
This impressive track record is a testament to Westminster School’s unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. Every day, its dedicated educators work alongside children and fellow staff to create an environment that is both nurturing and dynamic.
Jason Greenslade, recently certified HALT and the Curriculum Leader for Science and Applied Science, explains, “At Westminster, we offer an amazing array of opportunities to all children and encourage them to develop a set of values and skills which equip them for life and grow them into well rounded, empathetic and balanced young adults.”
For me, I also play a role in ensuring my team is supported, well-resourced and afforded the professional learning opportunities to be their very best for our children.
His dedication reflects the passion with which the educators at Westminster approach every aspect of teaching and learning.
Angela Phillips, Director of Teaching: Pedagogy and Digital Delivery, leads the HALT programme with unwavering commitment.
As the first teacher at Westminster School to be certified as HALT in 2019 and a recent recipient of the Leadership Award at the 2024 National Excellence in Teaching Awards, Phillips has been pivotal in embedding the HALT culture within the School.
Passionate about supporting all staff to be the best educators they can be, she believes the HALT accreditation process is transformative.
Phillips states, “Becoming a certified Lead Teacher was by far the most impactful professional learning I have ever undertaken and certainly changed me for the better as an educator. HALT certification works to boost leadership skills and career growth by recognising teaching expertise and fostering both professional development and support of colleagues. It allows our best teachers to stay in the classroom, working with children while still having a positive impact on our other teachers and opens doors to leadership roles.”
At Westminster School, the dedication to professional growth and educational excellence inspires every facet of its work. The HALT programme not only recognises and celebrates the expertise of its teachers but also drives continuous improvement in teaching practices that directly benefit children and the broader School community.
Discover more about how Westminster continues to inspire a culture of adventurous education and professional growth:
Westminster School
1–23 Alison Ave, Marion
