on 27/10/2025
Clarendon Primary School’s Kathleen Best is a passionate educator whose long-standing commitment to science education and the Oliphant Science Awards has inspired both students and colleagues alike. In 2025, she was honoured with a SASTA Volunteer Award for her outstanding contributions to the science education community.
“It makes me proud to be a teacher.”
For Kathleen, some of her proudest moments are grounded in recognition from peers and seeing her students thrive.
“It’s always a highlight when SASTA recognises my contributions, and it feels wonderful seeing children from my school succeed at the Oliphant Science Awards. These events make me feel very fulfilled and proud.”
Creating Space for Culture, Community and Conversation
Among the initiatives Kathleen is most excited about is a project that blends science with cultural learning and connection to Country. She’s currently working to secure funding for a Kaurna Yarning Circle in Clarendon Primary’s revegetation space.
“It will help bring our community into our school and facilitate conversations about First Nations science in our environment. I’m really hopeful we’ll receive funding—it would be a meaningful and authentic space for learning and discussion outdoors.”
And on a more practical note, she’s also looking forward to something many teachers can relate to:
“I’m really excited to finally have a new roof on my classroom—it’s been leaking for a while!”
Responding to the Changing Landscape of Learning
Kathleen’s teaching practice has evolved considerably throughout her career, shaped by changes in student needs, interests, and the integration of technology.
“I’ve shifted how I plan units of work, using more integration and explicit skill development. It’s been interesting watching how student interests and capabilities have changed. Following their lead has been an ever-changing journey.”
She’s incorporated a wide range of digital tools and platforms to allow students to express their understanding in diverse ways, always aiming to make learning both accessible and meaningful.
Learning as a Lifelong Practice
At the heart of Kathleen’s teaching philosophy is her own commitment to learning—particularly in embracing language and culture.
“I’m currently learning more about Kaurna language, and how to embed it into my daily teaching. It’s been valuable in helping me support all learners in my class, especially in recognising and celebrating different languages and cultures.”
A Dream Science Lesson in the Great Outdoors
When asked who she’d most love to co-teach a science lesson with, Kathleen didn’t hesitate:
“David Attenborough. To teach a nature lesson with him—bird watching or plant study—would be amazing. His enthusiasm for the environment is infectious.”
It’s no surprise that someone so deeply committed to nurturing a love of nature and science would dream of sharing the classroom (or forest!) with one of the world’s most beloved science communicators.
The Big Ideas That Spark Wonder
For Kathleen’s students, some of the most captivating science discussions come from the tiniest building blocks of the universe.
“They’re always amazed by atoms—the idea that something so small can make up everything in our vast and varied universe. That, and the realisation that science is everywhere and in everything we do. Those ideas really stick.”
Celebrating Volunteers Like Kathleen
Kathleen’s enthusiasm, dedication, and culturally responsive teaching approach make her a shining example of the values that underpin SASTA’s mission. Her work with the Oliphant Science Awards and her commitment to community connection show how science education can be both powerful and deeply personal.
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