Members of the Young community nominated the Year 8 to 12 English teacher, who said she felt very humbled by the gesture.

The NEiTA program – supported by the Australian Scholarships Group – is in its 20th year and gives communities the opportunity to formally thank their hard-working and inspiration educators and leaders.

It is the only national, community-centred teaching awards program that gives Australian parents and grandparents, secondary student councils, school boards and community organisations the opportunity to nominate their inspirational teachers, principals and directors.

“Ms Cohen is truly an inspirational teacher of English who challenges her students to do their best and be their best,” acting college principal Kathy Holding said.

The next level of the awards, state level, will see 60 nominees announced in November where Hennessy and the community hope Ms Cohen is one of them.

In early 2014 the final 12 teachers will be presented with a national award and a $5000 grant at a national celebratory function.

NEiTA chairman Terry O’Connell said they know firsthand the difference quality teaching makes in the community and a child’s future.

“We need to keep encouraging passionate young minds to enter the teaching profession to ensure our children get quality education outcomes and the best start in life,” he said.