2024 History Teacher of the Year Award
Congratulations to Simon Baker, our History Teacher of the Year!
Simon was recently awarded the 2024 History Teacher of the Year Award from the History Teachers Association of SA (HTASA), at the 2024 World Teachers’ Day Awards Ceremony on Friday 25 October at Adelaide Oval.
Surprised and humbled by this prestigious accolade, Simon took us through his journey to becoming the inspiring history educator he is today. Here’s what he had to say.
How do you feel about winning this award?
I was incredibly surprised as I was unaware of the nomination, and I felt truly honoured to be selected, especially since I have worked closely with the HTASA for years and it is an incredible organisation, filled with amazing educators. To have people that I look up to and respect, select me as the winner is beyond description.
Do you know who nominated you?
A few people nominated me this year, including Giles Bartram. Giles was my mentor at the start of my career and my line manager for over a decade at Nuriootpa High School, where he led the HASS department. I first met him as a student teacher during my second placement while completing my Masters. We quickly became friends, bonded by our shared love of history. Reading Giles' nomination felt truly special—it's an honour to see words like his from someone who has shaped my career. I wouldn’t be the teacher I am today without his guidance.
What was your path to becoming a history teacher?
Becoming a History teacher wasn’t on my radar when I left school and spent 2.5 years in a Science degree and then moved to a Bachelor of Archaeology, blending my love for history and science. After working in aviation for years, I finally pursued teaching—thanks to my wife’s encouragement. I have loved teaching since standing in front of a class during my initial placement and since mid-2012, I’ve been teaching History—a job where I get to share my passion and have precious time with my family. Eleven years on, I’m still as enthusiastic as ever and can’t imagine stopping anytime soon.
How was your love of history sparked?
My love for history started in childhood, growing up in England with historic sites and castles nearby. We often visited Chester, an ancient Roman fortress and Medieval market town, so I was immersed in history from an early age. My grandparents' WWII medals and artifacts also sparked my fascination. History has always been my passion, from reading and documentaries to painting historical miniatures. And, as they say, the rest is history.
Why do you think history is amazing and why should students study it?
I'm biased, but History is one of the most essential subjects in school. Humans are drawn to stories, and history is the story of humanity itself—it doesn't get more captivating than that. While not all students love it at first, many develop a deeper appreciation for history as they grow, especially if they have families. History shows us where we came from and guides us in shaping a better future.
What drives your approach to teaching history, and how do you see its value for students today and in the future?
My teaching philosophy is student engagement; when they’re interested, they’re more likely to enjoy it and choose it for their SACE years. History sharpens creative and critical thinking, especially through analysing sources—a skill that’s crucial now with the rise of AI, fake news, and misinformation. I'm committed to working with HTASA to champion history education and make it a subject that students genuinely enjoy.
Simon's passion for teaching and his ability to bring history to life makes him truly deserving of this award.