In the bustling kitchen, Belinda Vlasenko is the head chef of innovation, stirring up change and baking brilliance into every classroom at Trinity College, Beenleigh.
This World Teacher’s Day (31 October 2025), we celebrate Belinda, who this year was selected as an excellence awardee for the Department Head of the Year in the Australian Education Awards, for her curriculum revamp which has led to a 300% increase in Year 11 Certificate II Hospitality enrolments.
As Head of Design Technologies: Food and Materials (DTFM), Hospitality and Tourism, and Culture, Belinda’s secret ingredients to her classroom success include:
- a spoonful of real-world learning
- and a generous helping of philanthropy.
Why teaching?
Belinda said, “teaching isn’t just about content, it’s about connection”.
“I loved the idea that you could spend your life sharing your passion with young people and helping them discover their own,” she said.
“I became a teacher because I wanted to reach the students who felt disconnected, to help them find success and joy in learning, just as I had.”
To add to her achievements, Belinda has also spearheaded a student-run Mane St Café, which serves up more than just meals, but dishes out leadership, teamwork, and event management skills for her hospitality students.
Culture and impact
Trinity College Acting Vocational Education and Training Leader Kristina Carr, who nominated Belinda, said, “her influence extends far beyond the classroom”.
“As Cultural Leader, Belinda launched the International Study Tour Program, raising nearly $80,000 in 2024 and securing over $120,000 in bookings for 2025,” she said.
“These funds have been reinvested into student agency projects, cultural showcases, and school infrastructure, including auditorium upgrades and equipment for fundraising.
“Belinda’s approach to professional development is equally transformative.
“She fosters teacher self-efficacy through personalised pathways, collaborative planning, and mastery-based teaching models.
“Her leadership style, which is curious, creative, and inclusive in nature, empowers staff to innovate and take risks, resulting in improved teaching standards and student outcomes.”
Faith-filled learning
Belinda adds, teaching in a Catholic school allows her to nurture not just minds, but hearts.
“I get to help students grow academically and spiritually, and that’s a privilege I cherish,” she said.
“Our College’s Marist values of service, compassion and presence guide everything I do.
“I aim to co-create learning experiences that reflect each student’s gifts and aspirations.
“It’s about helping them find peace, purpose, and the courage to make a difference.”
About Trinity College, Beenleigh:
Trinity College, Beenleigh is a Catholic secondary school located between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Serving nearly 1000 students, the College prides itself on offering a diverse educational experience for students.
Trinity’s innovative My Learning PATH model empowers students to nominate courses instead of traditional subjects, providing them with the flexibility to design a personalised educational journey. Imagine a learning environment where all students can choose courses that align with their ever-changing passions, skill levels and career aspirations.
At Trinity College, they have reimagined education to make this a reality. Students are no longer confined to traditional subjects; instead, they have the freedom to select courses that both excite and challenge them. This approach not only fosters a love for learning but also equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
For more information about the Trinity College or to enrol click here.
About Queensland World Teachers’ Day:
Queensland World Teachers' Day is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and applaud our teachers for the important role they play in our communities and for the positive impact they have on the lives of students. This year’s Queensland theme is Teachers’ Make a Difference. If you would like to thank a staff member at a BCE school, share your appreciation on your school’s appreciation wall, take a photo and tag BCE on social media.