Two teachers have been recognised among the 2025 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science, earning national honours for their work inspiring students and strengthening Australia’s future STEM workforce.
Prime Minister Mr Anthony Albanese and Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Mr Tim Ayres announced the recipients on 3 November 2025, with awards acknowledging excellence in research, innovation, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems, and science teaching.
This year’s education honours were awarded to Mrs Paula Taylor from the Academy of Future Skills, and Mr Matt Dodds from Glen Innes High School, who received the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Excellence in Science Teaching in primary and secondary education, respectively.
Mrs Taylor was celebrated for her innovative approach to primary STEM learning, creating programs that spark curiosity and build confidence in students of all abilities. She is known for translating complex scientific ideas into engaging, problem-based learning experiences, helping thousands of young learners see themselves as capable scientists and thinkers.
Beyond her classroom impact, Mrs Taylor works closely with teachers, co-teaching and modelling practical strategies that lift student engagement. In her time at the academy she has worked with more than 10,000 students and 480 teachers, supporting schools to deliver high-quality STEM learning and inspiring future STEM pathways.
Mr Dodds was honoured for his leadership in secondary science education, particularly in regional and low socio-economic communities. His hands-on, real-world teaching approach aims to make abstract concepts meaningful and accessible, encouraging students from diverse backgrounds to pursue STEM careers.
Among his achievements is the creation of the annual two-day Astronomy and Astrophysics Depth Study Program at Siding Spring Observatory, now in its seventh year and attended by more than 280 regional students.
His efforts have significantly increased the number of female students studying physics at his school and the number of students pursuing higher education in STEM.
Mr Dodds also supports educators across Australia by sharing resources designed to energise STEM classrooms and build teacher capability.
