2010 Awards
Teacher Award
Mrs Merrilyn Watson
Specialist Music Teacher
The Essington School Darwin, Nightcliff, NT
Merrilyn Watson joined the Essington School in 1997. When she arrived at the school, there were only a few children learning instruments and the school lacked a musical culture. Merrilyn’s creation of a sequential, dynamic classroom music program, complemented by a stimulating choral program has resulted in the status of music being significantly enhanced within the school.
The culture of music which Merrilyn has been so instrumental in developing has seen the school recognised as a school of excellence in the National Review of School Music Education. A whole generation of children have benefited from Merrilyn’s programs and vision. A child entering Essington School is welcomed by a community where singing is the norm, playing an instrument is unexceptional, and the ability to read, write, perform and enjoy music is an everyday part of school life.