At TAS, we are fortunate to attract some of the most dedicated and talented educators, who are committed not only to shaping the future of their students but also to continuously growing in their own careers. Shannon Brischke, a highly experienced Prep teacher with over 30 years of teaching experience (15 of which have been at TAS) shares her journey toward achieving the Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HALT) qualification, and how her role has evolved as a result. Her ongoing commitment to improving student outcomes and engaging the wider community has been central to her success.

The Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HALT) qualification is a voluntary certification in Australia that recognises exemplary teaching practices.

Shannon credits much of her success to the encouragement and support she received from Principal Paul Sjogren and Head of Primary, Peter Gazzola. “It was Mr. Sjogren and Mr. Gazzola who initially encouraged me to apply for the HALT qualification,” Shannon recalls. Her HALT certification not only recognised her ‘best in class’ work but also had visible benefits for her students and their families, particularly through initiatives like the Parent Engagement Program and the development of the P-2 Reading Program at TAS.

Shannon’s work in the P-2 Reading Program is a prime example of how the HALT qualification empowers teachers to influence curriculum development and improve student learning outcomes. She transitioned the sort of books used in the classroom, , ensuring early literacy instruction was explicit, systematic, and based on the Science of Reading research.

Beyond the classroom, Shannon’s creativity shines through in her writing. She wrote a children’s book inspired by a simple yet profound experience at home. “It all started when I discovered a mouse in our house, taking biscuits from the dog’s bowl to feed her babies,” Shannon recalls. “My daughter, who was six at the time, decorated a box for us to relocate the mouse family. The story stuck with me, and after several months of thinking about it, I finally began writing.”

The book features elements of repetition, rhyme, and friendship—perfect for young readers. “When I read the book to my new Prep students each year, they quickly pick up on the repetitive phrases and join in,” Shannon says. “It’s a great feeling when they borrow it from the library and take it home to show their parents. Many of them have even asked me to sign it.”

Shannon’s book is a testament to her creativity and dedication to inspiring a love of reading in her students. Shannon’s passion for teaching young learners is evident in everything she does. “I love seeing my students grow from not knowing their letters to becoming independent readers and writers by the end of the year,” she says. “It’s one of the things that motivates me year after year to keep teaching.”

TAS fosters a unique school culture where curiosity, creativity, and a growth mindset are valued at every level. Shannon believes this culture is a key factor in the success of both students and staff.
The HALT qualification has allowed her to develop her leadership skills, influence school programs, and deepen her impact on student learning. It also reflects the ongoing commitment of TAS educators to strive for excellence, both for their students and in their own professional growth.