7 Oct 2025

Louise Symonds

Outstanding Contribution to Teaching

Louise Symonds

With a career spanning 16 years, Louise Symonds has become a respected educator known for her innovative teaching and dedication to her school community. With more than a decade with the Townsville Grammar community, Louise has consistently demonstrated a commitment to fostering both academic excellence and personal growth in her students.

As a specialist French teacher, Louise established a comprehensive French language program from Prep to Year 6, earning national recognition in 2022 with the FAFTA Prize for her innovative curriculum on New Caledonia. Her students have excelled in Alliance Française competitions, achieving top placings across multiple years. Beyond the classroom, Louise's leadership extends to mentoring early-career teachers, guiding them through curriculum changes and modelling effective teaching practices.

Louise's influence also shines in co-curricular activities, where she draws on her background as a state-level athlete to coach hockey and rowing teams, instilling resilience and teamwork in her students. Her work with the Early Act Club, in partnership with Mundingburra Rotary, has further strengthened ties between the school and the local community through impactful service projects. Respected for her humility, kindness, and professionalism, Louise's contributions continue to enrich the lives of students, colleagues, and families alike.