A Cape Woolamai teacher has topped the teachers studying at Curtin University

Andre Hetebrueg was named the Outstanding Regional Student winner at the Curtin University’s annual School of Education awards.

Andre, who is a Year 1 teacher at Korumburra Primary School, won the award for achieving excellence in his overall academic performance during the course.

“I want to inspire young people to wonder, and I want them to know they can be good people, regardless of their academic outcomes, as long as they give it their best go and leave nothing behind,” said

Andre, who is originally from Germany but now lives on Phillip Island.

“Children should have the confidence to know that they can reach high and shouldn’t be afraid to fail, but stand up and persist.

“I hope I can instil this attitude.”

Curtin University said the awards were a way to recognise the brightest teachers of tomorrow.

Curtin University School of Education Head Professor Jeff Brooks congratulated the 18 recipients of 26 awards at the annual ceremony.

“For almost 50 years, Curtin has been training teachers to work in a fast-changing world and I am absolutely delighted with the calibre of teachers that have been recognised at this year’s School of Education awards ceremony,” Professor Brooks said.

“We all know the difference one life-changing interaction with a passionate teacher can have on the next generation, so it gives me great joy to acknowledge our very best and brightest graduates.”