Earlier this month, St Hilda's School teacher Mrs Benzenati had the privilege of attending the annual Highly Accomplished and Lead Teachers (HALT) Summit in Sydney. The theme of this year's Summit was: Innovate, Elevate, Celebrate. This prestigious event gathers certified teachers from across Australia, providing a unique opportunity to collaborate with leading thinkers, develop leadership skills, and inspire fellow educators.

The HALT Summit is a two-day event designed specifically for certified teachers who have demonstrated excellence in their field. The Summit's purpose is to equip HALTs with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead and inspire their colleagues. Additionally, the event recognises the critical role that school and educational leaders play in supporting and utilising their teachers' expertise. To this end, HALTs attending the Summit can invite their leaders to join them as virtual delegates. Aspiring HALTs are also welcomed to participate as virtual delegates, making the event inclusive and far-reaching. Attendance is by invitation only, with strictly limited places to ensure a focused and enriching experience.

Mrs Benzenati, certified as a Lead Teacher since 2018, was particularly excited to contribute to this year's Summit. One of the highlights of her experience was participating in the Sharespace session, where she presented on the topic, “Unfolding the Humanist Vision in Education: Nurturing Professional Growth through Transformative Collaboration.” Her presentation was well-received, sparking engaging discussions and earning positive feedback from the delegates.

The HALT Summit not only allowed Mrs Benzenati to share her insights but also provided her with the opportunity to learn from other leading educators. The collaborative environment fostered by the Summit is instrumental in driving innovation and excellence in education. By bringing together accomplished teachers and leaders, the event ensures that participants return to their schools with fresh ideas and renewed enthusiasm for teaching.

In summary, the HALT Summit 2024 was an inspiring and dynamic event that highlighted the importance of innovation, elevation, and celebration in education. Mrs Benzenati's contribution, alongside those of her peers, underscores the significant impact that dedicated and visionary educators can have on the teaching profession.

Natalie Hunt

Marketing