Teacher ahead of the rest

Newton Moore Senior High School science teacher Lynette Hillier’s innovative science programs and ability to elevate biology from the weakest performing subject to the top performing subject has put her in the running for a prestigious award.

Science and Innovation Minister Bill Marmion announced Mrs Hillier as one of the 15 finalists chosen in this year’s Western Australian Science Awards as Science Educator of the Year.

Enjoying human biology at school has developed into a thriving passion for teaching which has brought Mrs Hillier into the schooling system to inspire others.

In her four years at Newton Moore High School she has transformed human biology.

"It’s because I like it (science) so much as well," she said.

Developing the Marine Managers Science Horizons Program, which monitors dolphin and mangrove populations, has been another of Mrs Hillier’s accomplishments which earnt her the nomination.

Making ice cream in five minutes with salt and ice to teach about heat and compounds is a method used by Mrs Hillier.

Using toffee to teach about saturated solutions is another way this educator keeps students interested.

"I enjoy being creative, I am always excited about finding a new way to teach," Mrs Hillier said.