At The Knox School in Wantirna South, education is grounded in strong relationships, purposeful learning and a deep belief in the potential of every child. Few represent this better than Deputy Head of Junior School, Sarah McKenzie, whose commitment to teaching has shaped both students and staff across the school.
Sarah’s passion for education began early. “I always knew I wanted to be a teacher,” she says. What began as an interest in PE soon broadened into a desire to work more closely with children in the classroom. Since then, Sarah has taught across a wide range of year levels and learning needs. “I don’t have a favourite age group,” says Sarah. “I just love kids. Each one brings something different and that keeps the work inspiring.”
Her dedication is unmistakable. She often finds herself awake in the early hours wondering how to make a lesson more engaging or how to support a student who needs a new approach. “Mistakes are part of life,” she says.
“Children need to know it’s safe to try, to fail and to learn. The academic work matters, but helping them grow into curious, kind, respectful people is what truly lasts.”
Sarah plays a significant role in shaping learning across the Junior School. She has led important work on curriculum development, including strengthening scope and sequence documentation, championing explicit teaching practices and introducing literacy screeners that identify student needs early. She collaborates closely with every year level team, guiding planning, mentoring colleagues and ensuring the school delivers consistent, high-quality learning for every child.
Her impact was recognised recently when she received the 2025 Tilly Aston Teacher of the Year Award, an honour celebrating educators who uplift their communities through exceptional leadership and care. Sarah’s nomination highlighted her deep pedagogical knowledge, her practical, evidence-informed approach and her unwavering focus on meaningful learning rather than box-ticking. Those who work with her describe her as generous with her time, thoughtful in her advice and committed to making a genuine difference in every classroom.
The Knox School’s strong culture of care and professional growth is something Sarah values deeply. “When staff feel supported, students feel it, too,” she says. Engagement in coaching, curriculum innovation and global programs has allowed her to continually refine her practice and bring fresh energy to her teaching.
For Sarah, the greatest reward remains the joy of seeing children thrive. “Hearing from families, watching students grow with confidence, celebrating the little wins every day … that’s why I do what I do,” says Sarah.
At The Knox School, teachers like Sarah ensure every child feels known, valued and ready for whatever comes next.
The Knox School is driven to provide meaningful learning experiences, personalised to our students’ strengths. The Knox School offers Early […]