For 18 years at All Hallows’ School, Karen Lewis has worn many hats. From an English and Literature teacher to Curriculum Leader, and a member of the Professional Practice Team, she has continuously enhanced teaching methods and student learning.

She has impacted the broader school community through roles like Research Advisor for the Global Action Research Collaborative (GARC) and Project Leader of the Early Career Mentor Program.

In her research advisor role, Karen has made significant strides in improving feedback practices, particularly for adolescent girls. Selected in 2019 for a global study, Karen’s research focused on “Feedback to Move Forward, Thrive, and Grow,” exploring how feedback can build resilience and confidence in students. Her findings emphasised the importance of personalised, conversational feedback and genuine mentorship, leading to a shift in feedback practices within the English department at All Hallows.

For the Early Career Mentor Program, Karen is instrumental in nurturing new educators. She set up the program in 2023, connecting early career teachers with seasoned mentors and providing a robust framework for professional development. This includes structured sessions on behaviour management and communication, as well as informal meetings and self-directed learning opportunities.

Karen actively participates in outreach activities and generously shares resources with colleagues. Her contributions also include leading the school’s collaboration with the University of Newcastle’s ‘Quality Professional Learning Program’ and presenting at significant conferences, such as the Asia Pacific Summit on Girls’ Education, the Australasian Mercy Secondary Schools Association Conference, and the International Coalition of Girls Schools’ Global Forum.