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I will work hard to remove any barriers to education for my students,” – Year 5 and 6 St Eugene College, Burpengary, Support Teacher for Inclusive Education Ruth Sharman.
Away from school for 18 months after being diagnosed with a brain tumour and developing Locked-in Syndrome, St Eugene College Year 6 student Jaxson is now able to return to school life thanks to his support teacher, Ruth Sharman.
It’s Ruth’s unwavering commitment to students like Jaxson that won her the TUH Award for Excellence in Safety and Wellbeing at Brisbane Catholic Education’s Excellence Awards (15 August).
When speaking about her recent award win, Ruth said she was humbled and quite emotional.
“I told Jaxson we won this award together,” she said.
“I felt very proud of our community and what we have accomplished together for Jaxson.
“Jaxson has proved to our school community that inclusion is possible, no matter what the barriers look like.
“If you involve all the right people and have a child’s best interests at heart, anything is possible.”
Finding a way back to College life
Not only did Ruth coordinate and liaise with her College Leadership Team to ensure facilities and resources were suitable for Jaxson’s return, but she also collaborated with allied health professionals to ensure a comprehensive plan was put in place.
Jaxson’s Mother, Helen Cheung said from the very beginning, “Ruth has been an unwavering advocate for Jaxson”.
“Returning to school was something we never imagined could be possible,” she said.
“Through her tireless efforts over many months, Ruth ensured that all the necessary requirements were met, enabling Jaxson to finally rejoin his friends and classmates at the start of 2025.
“Her dedication, care, and attention extend far beyond Jaxson, touching the lives of every student she encounters at St Eugene’s College.
“Since returning to school, Jaxson has flourished.
“This significant milestone has supported many aspects of his rehabilitation and brought immense positivity and hope to everyone around him.
“We are profoundly grateful to Ruth for her extraordinary commitment, guidance, and support throughout every step of Jaxson’s journey.”
Everyone belongs at St Eugene College
St Eugene College, Burpengary Principal Louise Olley said with Jaxson’s younger sibling also attending St Eugene College, Ruth believed this was also where Jaxson belonged.
“Ruth doesn't just say words to tick boxes; she means them and follows through with her actions,” she said.
“She is deeply compassionate towards all students at St Eugene College but has truly gone above and beyond in this case.
“Ruth is a real activist and demonstrates that there are no boundaries when it comes to individual and inclusive learning.”
For more information about St Eugene College, Burpengary 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.