The one-time staff member at the Australian Technical College has been awarded a national award for excellence, despite the impending closure of the school.

Miss Brock, of Port Pirie, today described the award, including $30,000 prizemoney, as “bitter-sweet” as she was told of her achievement after resigning from the

college because of lack of funding next year.

“It was a bit bitter-sweet when they

notified me I had won as I had another job and just moved on because the college probably will not be around next year,” she said.

“It is still great to win the award and great for the college.”

Miss Brock attended the Australian Awards for Teaching Excellence at Parliament House in Canberra last month.

She was among nine finalists from South Australia in varying categories, but was the only nominee from the State to win the national award.

“The category covers most people who work at a school, but not as a teacher,” she said.

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“Working at the college was the only time I had ever worked in a school, and I was lucky to work in such a flexible and supportive environment where I could really help the students,” Miss Brock said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Julia Gillard presented the award in a moment of irony.

“It was a bit sad because the Federal Govern-ment and Julia Gillard’s department are the ones who are withdrawing the funding for the college,” Miss Brock said.

“But it was a great experience and I hope other people are aware of the awards as it is a huge recognition.”

The college also received $15,000, but principal Damien Judd was unsure how it would be spent.

The citation spoke of Miss Brock’s “energy, drive and passion”.

She set up a scheme to lure unemployed youth back to school and move into apprenticeships. This involved working with multi-national companies.

Miss Brock now works for the State Government in Aboriginal employment.