A Northlands Primary School teacher has been awarded the Public Service Excellence Award for April for her work implementing a new Creative Curriculum.

Dionne Tuzo, the lead Primary 1 teacher and mathematics teacher at the school, was praised for her work with students and for playing a “key role” in the new curriculum which adopts a play-based learning approach.

David Burt, the Premier, said: “Her leadership in delivering innovative and student-focused instruction through the Creative Curriculum, along with her efforts to strengthen mathematics teaching at Northlands Primary, reflects the kind of dedication we are proud to see in Bermuda’s public education system.

“Ms Tuzo’s commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of how they learn, is given the opportunity to succeed is commendable.”

Ms Tuzo said: “I am happy that public school gets to have some positive light shined on it.

“This is not just about me, this is about public education.”

A government spokeswoman said Ms Tuzo has helped to create a learning environment where students can express themselves, solve problems and build foundational skills through play.

“This year, several neurodivergent students in her class have been able to tap into their own creativity and show what they know in ways that may not have been recognised in more traditional settings,” she said.

“Her Primary 1 class achieved the highest assessment results in the school, and her classroom is now being used as an example for other schools that are expanding the programme.”

Ms Tuzo was also credited for introducing school-wide maths workshops to give students more individualised instruction.

She designed and led professional development sessions for staff to help improve maths education.

Cherie Whitter, Head of the Public Service, added: “Ms Tuzo’s leadership is a shining example of what excellence looks like in action.

“She is not only transforming learning in her classroom but inspiring system-wide improvement.”