Rosie Connelly

Rosie Nicole Connelly has emerged as a transformative force in education, driven by personal experiences and a relentless passion for advocacy and inclusivity. Teaching at school in Adelaide, South Australia, Rosie has dedicated her career to championing neurodivergent students and reshaping classroom practices. Her commitment to addressing challenges faced by students on the autism spectrum and her innovative teaching methods have gained accolades including South Australia’s Primary Teacher of the Year (2022), the Schools Plus Early Career Teacher Award (2023), and recognition as Australia’s Most Influential Educator by Educator Australia (2024). 

Rosie’s inspiration to teach stems from her own difficult school experiences, marked by bullying and anxiety. Determined to become the advocate she once needed, she has devoted her career to creating inclusive and supportive educational environments. Appointed as one of the Autism Inclusion Leads for South Australia, Rosie pioneered evidence-based strategies to support students with autism, sharing her expertise with teachers statewide. Her efforts attracted the attention of the South Australian Assistant Minister of Autism, who praised her initiatives as best practices for autism inclusion. 

One of Rosie’s proudest achievements has been raising awareness about autism through professional development initiatives, including a presentation at the Autism Inclusion Conference to an audience of 350 educators. By addressing sensory profiles, stimming behaviours, and the challenges of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), she has equipped countless teachers with tools to foster inclusive classrooms. These efforts have led to improved student outcomes and reduced behavioural challenges, creating a ripple effect of positive change. 

Her teaching approach is rooted in fostering lifelong learning, metacognitive strategies, and collaborative problem-solving. In mathematics, Rosie employs a structured lesson framework that emphasises productive struggle, peer collaboration, and reflection. Her students develop resilience, self-regulation, and critical thinking skills, demonstrated by significant improvements in literacy and numeracy outcomes. For instance, in 2024, 95% of her students met or exceeded the Standard for Educational Achievement (SEA) in Progressive Achievement Testing for Mathematics (PAT-M). 

Beyond her classroom, Rosie’s impact extends to the wider community. She is a published advocate for autism awareness, with articles featured in national outlets including Mamamia and Education HQ. She also collaborates with local organisations to promote dialogue on autism and sustainability. Rosie’s students have engaged in community-focused projects, such as advocating for environmental sustainability following South Australia’s statewide plastic ban. These initiatives have inspired her students to see themselves as global citizens, equipped with the skills to navigate and contribute to a rapidly changing world. 

As a Highly Accomplished Teacher and a national assessor for teaching certification, Rosie has also contributed significantly to elevating the teaching profession. She mentors early-career educators, facilitates professional learning communities, and champions continuous professional development. Her influence has been transformative, not just for her students but for educators across Australia. One achievement that encapsulates her extraordinary contribution is her advocacy for autism inclusion. By integrating evidence-based practices into classrooms, empowering educators, and reshaping educational policies, she has profoundly impacted both her local and national communities. Through her work, Rosie Nicole Connelly exemplifies the transformative power of teaching and advocacy.