Emma Pritchard
When Bernadette Ryan travelled to Sydney late last year, she thought she was going to see her star culinary student Scott Wright receive the prestigious William R Galvin Memorial Scholarship.
But the Commercial Cookery Teacher with TAFE NSW in Grafton brought an additional trophy home to the Clarence Valley after she was presented with the Tourism Training Australia Award of Excellence in recognition of her dedication to her role and her motivational influences which extend beyond the classroom.
“I didn’t know anything about it (the award),” she revealed.
“I thought I was there to support and cheer for Scott, not to receive an award for myself.
“I was completely dumbfounded, and it was a very unexpected honour.”
Ms Ryan, who hails from Harwood, worked as a professional chef until she found her true passion for teaching eight years ago and made the transition from the kitchen to the classroom, successfully creating the perfect recipe for success.
In between sharing her love of cooking with the next generation of aspiring chefs, Ms Ryan also instils confidence in their developing abilities and nurtures their talent and passion for food while encouraging them to reach their full potential and empowering them as they prepare to take their next steps into the fast-paced and often challenging hospitality industry.
Inspired by her Grandma Edith, a passionate home cook, food has always played an important role in Ms Ryan’s life.
Growing up in a picturesque rural setting where livestock was raised from the paddock to the plate, her experience working with fresh produce shaped her culinary philosophy.
Since commencing her teaching career, she has taught more than 200 students in a supportive and motivating environment while helping them to thrive and excel.
While praising Scott’s enthusiasm along with his resilience and ability to overcome challenges while remaining focused under pressure, Ms Ryan said she loves seeing her students succeed and be recognised for their efforts.
“It definitely makes my role very rewarding,” she added.
“Scott is also the third recipient of the William R Galvin Memorial Scholarship I’ve taught in the past four years, and it makes me feel so proud of the work they have put in.”
Valued at $5000, the William R Galvin Memorial Scholarship supports recipients as they undertake further study, training, or work placements in the tourism, travel, and hospitality industries across Australia and overseas.
The presentation ceremony took place at the Crown Casino in Sydney late last year.
Ms Ryan told the Clarence Valley Independent she is looking forward to meeting new students and teaching new classes in 2025.