Ripley Valley State Secondary College's Callum Simmons has established himself as a leader in curriculum innovation and student engagement since becoming a full-time teacher in 2023.

Callum's standout achievement is the transformation of the school's esports program from a co-curricular activity into a fully integrated subject. By aligning it with health and physical education, business, and digital technologies subjects, he has created a platform that enhances digital literacy, collaboration, and academic engagement. His innovative approach extended into a Year 9 mathematics unit, where he incorporated esports strategy and data analysis into assessment tasks, resulting in increased student enjoyment and participation.

Beyond the classroom, Callum has collaborated with other schools and external organisations to co-develop esports curriculum frameworks, demonstrating his influence and subject knowledge. He has also led professional development sessions for colleagues on integrating AI and student voice data into teaching practices.

Callum's commitment to fostering inclusive, future-focussed learning opportunities has not only re-engaged at-risk students but also positioned him as a forward-thinking educator dedicated to making a meaningful impact on young people's lives.