A OneSchool Global educator who has transformed learning experiences for students with diverse learning needs has been named the 2026 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year, with the announcement providing a fitting highlight during Teacher Aide Week.
Kimberley Nolan, Campus Student Support Assistant at OneSchool Global Toowoomba, received the national honour after first being recognised as the 2026 Queensland Teacher Aide of the Year, recognising her as the top teacher aide in the state.
The award recognises teacher aides who demonstrate exceptional impact on student learning, wellbeing and inclusion, with Kimberley’s work highlighted for both its measurable outcomes and the care she brings to supporting students every day. The awards recognised Kimberley’s results in improving individual learning goals, literacy and numeracy outcomes.
Kimberley said the recognition reflected the students and school community she works alongside every day.
“I absolutely love walking into my campus each and every day knowing I can make a difference. I am supported by incredible staff, students and families. I am so fortunate to have a workplace and job that I absolutely love”.
Throughout her nomination, colleagues described Kimberley as a highly proactive educator who consistently goes beyond the expectations of her role to support students and staff.
Wendy Robinson, Sub-Regional Director of Learning Support for QLD, said Kimberley exemplified the very best of teacher aide practice.
“Kimberley exemplifies the very best of teacher aide practice through her deeply student-centred approach, outstanding professionalism and lasting impact on the students she supports.”
Toowoomba Campus Principal James Easthope said Kimberley’s influence extended across every aspect of campus life.
“Kimberley consistently goes above and beyond her role description, providing exceptional support to both staff and students. She proactively develops and shares high-quality resources, offers targeted in-class assistance and plays a key role in creating a positive campus culture.”
Kimberley’s national title capped a remarkable result for OneSchool Global in the 2026 Australian Teacher Aide Awards. In addition to her Queensland and Australian Teacher Aide of the Year honours, the Orange Campus Learning Support Team was recognised among the national Team of the Year nominees, while the Melton OneSchool Campus Learning Support Team received a Highly Commended award. The results reflect the depth of expertise within OneSchool Global’s learning support teams and their commitment to helping every student thrive.
About OneSchool Global
OneSchool Global is an independent school network that has more than 8,000 primary and secondary students and 2,000 staff across the globe, in regions including United Kingdom, North America, Europe, Australia, Argentina, New Zealand and the Caribbean. Our students come from the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church community; however, OneSchool Global is not a religious school and only teaches religion as required in the curriculum.
