Benjamin (Ben) Turnour has been a pivotal figure in the development of Bellbird Park State Secondary College in the Ipswich region, after it opened its doors in 2017.

A founding teacher and key leader, over the past eight years Ben has been crucial in fostering the school's culture of achievement.

Boasting over 1,800 students and 166 staff members, Ben has overseen the implementation of the school’s Pedagogical Framework as EAL/D (English as an additional language or dialect) Coordinator and now the Head of Teaching and Learning. His role has ensured the diverse student body – including First Nations, Pacific Islander, and African students with EAL/D requirements – have strived and thrived.

For staff, he has championed Collaborative Learning Communities (CLCs), organised professional development sessions, and facilitated peer observations to enhance teaching practices. Ben's dedication extends to supporting new educators. Each year, he oversees the mentoring of new teachers (30 in 2024) and manages more than 50 pre-service teachers. Under his guidance, Bellbird Park boasts a remarkable 96 per cent staff retention rate over the past four years.

His implementation of a Beginning Mentor Teacher program, and trained mentors to provide meaningful support, has contributed to zero early career teacher departures from the profession in the last three years. Additionally, Ben has coordinated over 210 peer observations and organised learning walks, which have led to a 95 per cent positive feedback rate from participating staff.

Ben’s leadership has been integral in the success of Bellbird Park’s commitment to high student outcomes – with 82.5 per cent of its EAL/D students achieving a pass rate in 2022.

Colleagues recognised him with a nomination for Teacher of the Year at the Australian Educator Awards in 2022. His impact on the school’s culture and student growth is a testament to his passionate and effective leadership.