A Victorian Principal has been honoured on the national stage for his tireless work supporting disadvantaged students, transforming lives through equity, inclusion and unwavering care.
Frankston East Primary School principal Warren Bull – a well-respected leader who has spent years clearing barriers for vulnerable students – received The Smith Family–NEiTA Award for Powering Potential at the 31st National Excellence in Teaching Awards (NEiTA).
The Awards, held at the State Library in Melbourne on November 10 and sponsored by Futurity Investment Group, celebrate educators who go above and beyond to help children facing disadvantage achieve their potential.
For more than three decades, NEiTA has recognised more than 1,110 exceptional educators, awarding $1.5m in professional development grants. The program is Australia and New Zealand’s longest-running community-based awards initiative, giving parents and communities the chance to say thank you to remarkable teachers.
Bull, who also received a $10,000 professional development grant from the NEiTA Foundation, said it was a “lovely surprise” to learn he had won the Award, and had no idea he had even been nominated.
“The Frankston East Primary School team is very passionate about giving our students the tools to succeed,” he said in a statement. “Our classrooms are safe spaces, where students are seen and understood, and can achieve the best possible outcomes.”
Bull has spent years clearing barriers for vulnerable students, from uniforms and meals to learning adjustments and family support. His smart use of equity funding has lifted outcomes school-wide, while his calm, inclusive mentoring has strengthened both staff and students.
NEiTA Foundation Chairperson Catherine O’Sullivan said Bull “exemplifies the power of exceptional teaching”.
“Warren is a talented, passionate, and life-changing force in education,” she said. “His ability to motivate, educate, and inspire strengthens the Frankston community and leaves a lasting mark on countless students.”
Doug Taylor, CEO of The Smith Family, said Warren’s impact is felt far beyond the school gates.
“Warren’s unwavering commitment shines a light on the transformational role teachers play in enriching young lives through education,” he said. “He embodies the spirit of the Powering Potential Award.”