Bank First director and former Principal Judy Crowe was on this year’s TIP judging panel and shared her reflections of this unique banking initiative.

Over a number of years I have been part of the panel that considers applications from schools for small grants to support initiatives to improve student outcomes. These grants are made through Bank First’s Teaching Initiative Program (TIP). This program is one of the ways Bank First provides financial support to educators and health professionals. TIP has supported schools across the state for 30 years.

The nature of the applications we receive has changed over the years, perhaps reflecting the issues that are most challenging for schools. We support many literacy, numeracy, environmental and cultural programs but what is evident though the submissions is the growing recognition by schools of the needs of neurodivergent children. These children are spread across mainstream schools, as well as special settings. The needs of some of the children are quite significant.

There is debate as to whether we now have more neurodivergent children or whether we more effectively recognise these children in our schools. As a Principal I was inclined to believe we simply were better at identifying these children. With the broader perspective I now have as a grandparent of two children whose lives are profoundly impacted by autism, I am more inclined to believe we have an increased number of these children in our community.

Sadly schools struggle to meet the needs of these children, and hence we have more schools seeking resources through our Teaching Initiative Program (TIP) to support programs for them. It is apparent through the applications that teachers care deeply about these children and that they are constantly wanting to explore initiatives to cater for their needs.

From the large number of applications we receive it is very hard to make decisions about which initiatives we support. The applications certainly pull at the heart strings of all panel members because they demonstrate great professionalism, compassion and energy from teachers who clearly want the best for their students.

It is a privilege to read these applications. I applaud all those people in schools who want to take an initiate to impact the lives of children in their care, and consequently to provide an example for other schools to emulate. I also congratulate this year’s winners.