Gostelow Excellence in Leadership

Recognises School Psychologists’ who exemplify the qualities of leadership, innovation, and positive influence to enhance the school psychology profession.

Nominators will be required to write a 750-1000 (max) word statement addressing the following criteria:

The Gostelow Excellence in Leadership Award is presented to a school psychologist who exemplifies commitment and an innovative approach, identifying and influencing evidence-based and sustainable solutions within complex and evolving educational settings. Leading with humility, they inspire and cultivate an environment characterised by trust and mutual respect, dedicated to fostering the professional growth of others. This leader places a strong emphasis on establishing effective partnerships to benefit whole-school communities and/or regions across Western Australia. They seek feedback and engage in ongoing professional development, demonstrating a commitment to refining skills and expanding knowledge to enhance the school psychology profession. 

Eligibility Criteria

To be nominated, an individual must:

  • Be working as a School Psychologist, School Psychologist Consultant, Lead School Psychologist/Lead Psychologist, or Chief Psychologist in the Department of Education WA, Catholic Education WA or Independent sector.

  • Be a member of SPAWA, but not on the Committee of the Association.

  • Be aware of the nomination as the nominee is expected to be present at the award ceremony.

nomination procedure

The nomination process requires a nominator and endorser. Either the nominator or endorser must be a lead school psychologist, school psychologist or equivalent. Please ensure the endorser is aware of the nomination. SPAWA recommends the nominator and endorser collaborate to complete the nomination form.

STAGE 1: Nominator submits the completed nomination form addressing the
                  awards criteria via Microsoft Forms link.

STAGE 2: Endorsement by the school psychologist's professional leader
               (i.e., lead psychologist, director) or experienced colleague who is able to verify information within the nomination.
                SPAWA will contact the endorser via email.

NOMINATION TIPS

  • Work collaboratively where possible with the endorser

  • When addressing the criteria, emphasise the school psychologist's skills by incorporating specific examples employing the Situation, Action, and Outcome (SAO) framework.

  • We recommend the information on your forms nomination is saved in an alternative document (e.g. Microsoft Word) before it is submitted. Once you begin the nomination form, it cannot be saved.

  • A thorough and well considered nomination will support the panel to rate each criterion and determine the top candidate.