Over 1,000 teachers and support staff in schools that service the Light Electorate received Certificates of Appreciation last week as part of the celebrations to Mark World Teachers’ Day 2016.

The certificates were produced by the office of local State Member of Parliament, Mr Tony Piccolo. Mr Piccolo said the certificates were a token symbol of appreciation for the work teachers and support staff perform in educating and caring for the students in their care.

Celebrated in over 100 countries, World Teachers' Day acknowledges the efforts of teachers and support staff in an increasingly complex, multicultural and technological society.

Mr Piccolo said this is a day on when students, parents and community members can demonstrate their appreciation for the contributions that teachers and support staff have made to their community.

Mr Piccolo said he wrote to all school principals in the local area inviting them to nominate teachers and support staff in their school they would like to see receive a certificate of appreciation.

World Teachers’ Day was initiated on 5th October 1994 by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation. In adopting this day governments recognise the importance of competent, qualified and motivated teachers in society and important role support staff play in the management of our schools.

Internationally, World Teachers’ Day is celebrated on the first Friday in October, however as this usually occurs during Australian school holidays, it is celebrated on the last Friday in October.

Mr Piccolo said volunteers also play an important part in educating our children and their contribution would be acknowledged and celebrated on another occasion.