- High performing staff
- Secondary school
13 Aug 2026
Clairvaux MacKillop College, Upper Mount Gravatt Curriculum Leader Science Katrina Dalglish is passionate about helping students discover what is possible beyond the college gates.
This commitment to opening doors and creating pathways in science has earned Katrina recognition on both the national and local stage. In 2026, she was named an Excellence Awardee in the Department Head of the Year at the Australian Education Awards and has also been recognised as a finalist in Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) Excellence Awards in the NGS Super Award for Excellence in Learning and Teaching in Secondary School category.
Through her role, Katrina has been integral in increasing female student participation in STEM subjects at the College by 20 per cent, demonstrating the real impact of her work in breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities for young women.
She has pioneered partnerships with programs such as Griffith University's STEM Ambassadors Program and SuperGEMS Girls in Girls Engaged in Motorsport and STEM program, paving the way for student pathways.
Katrina said her mission as an educator is to expand possibilities for her students.
“Too often, young women underestimate the opportunities available to them in STEM fields because they don't see enough examples of people like themselves in those careers,” she said.
“I am passionate about creating experiences that help students build confidence, challenge stereotypes and realise that there is a place for them in these industries.
“My goal is to ensure every student, regardless of gender, feels empowered to explore their interests and pursue pathways that align with their strengths and ambitions.
“The greatest reward of teaching is seeing students develop the confidence to pursue opportunities they may never have previously imagined.”
Clairvaux MacKillop College Principal Wayne Chapman said Katrina was dedicated to helping young people build confidence, discover their strengths, and find pathways into future study, careers, and life opportunities.
“Katrina’s leadership in STEM education has helped position Clairvaux MacKillop College as a leader in creating authentic learning opportunities for students,” he said.
“Katrina recognises the importance of industry engagement. The partnerships she has created provide students with direct access to industry professionals, hands-on learning experiences and insights into future STEM career pathways.
“Through these partnerships, Katrina has helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and the real world.”
Wayne said the results of Katrina’s work were evident across the College.
“Her commitment to creating meaningful industry connections and showcasing female role models has inspired more of our female students to pursue STEM subjects and consider careers in STEM-related fields,” he said.
“Her vision and dedication are creating lasting change in the lives of our students and helping to build a stronger pipeline of young women entering STEM pathways in the future.”
Katrina will compete for the award at the upcoming BCE Excellence Awards in August, alongside fellow finalists -
Jane Foxe, Assisi Catholic College, Upper Coomera
Joshua Damen, Chisholm Catholic College, Cornubia
Jack Selman, Clairvaux MacKillop College, Upper Mt Gravatt
Tony Ventre, Mt Maria College, Mitchelton
Hayley Stanly, Mt Maria College, Petrie
Te Ana Riddell, Saint Mary's Catholic College, Kingaroy
Michael Allen, San Damiano College, Yarrabilba
Lauren Giovenco, San Sisto College, Carina
Anthony Young, Southern Cross Catholic College (Secondary), Scarborough
Stacey Hertrick, St Columban's College, Caboolture
Alysha Daley, St Michael's College, Merrimac
Jason Nash, St Peter Claver College, Riverview
Wayne Forrest, St Michael's College, Merrimac
For more information about Clairvaux MacKillop College, Upper Mount Gravatt or to enrol, click here.
Find a Catholic school in Brisbane today, click here.
About the BCE Excellence Awards
The awards recognise individuals and teams for their outstanding service, leadership and unwavering commitment to BCE’s Catholic mission and values. From 633 nominations across 116 schools and the BCE Office, 127 individuals and 22 teams have been selected as finalists in 2026.
The NGS Super Award for Excellence in Learning and Teaching in Secondary School recognises outstanding educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to deepening student learning. It highlights teachers who cultivate positive relationships with parents, colleagues, and the wider school community.
Image caption: Clairvaux MacKillop College, Upper Mount Gravatt Curriculum Leader Science Katrina Dalglish with Year 11 students Michaela, Miguel, Michaela, and Cooper. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).
View all news