Dr Sleap was among 12 teachers nationwide named as winners of the Commonwealth Bank Teaching Awards, with each receiving a $45,000 fellowship to use for professional development and to implement a strategic project that drives long-term, measurable benefits for their school.

Later this year the winners will have the opportunity to travel internationally and tour a high-performing education system.

Dr Sleap's award recognised his work to improve students' STEM ability, engagement, participation and aspiration through the creation of the Cessnock Academy of STEM Excellence (CASE) and other high-impact learning programs.

A partnership between Cessnock High School and its feeder primary schools, CASE is attributed with engaging students' interest in STEM, cutting the suspension rates and lifting attendance.

In 2019, Dr Sleap's academy model was delivered in 65 schools in five regional centres across NSW.

Another of his programs, STEM Industry Schools Partnership (in which schools partner with industry giants to mentor and inspire students) is also being rolled out across the state.

As one of 12 winners from 400 nominees, Dr Sleap said he was humbled to receive the fellowship.

"Receiving this award was somewhat of a surprise considering there is such an amazing array of talented and hardworking teachers across Australia," he said.

"I am very proud of the achievements of the Cessnock Academy of STEM Excellence which I helped establish and has been pivotal to me receiving this award.

"It is highly rewarding as a teacher to develop programs which have such a positive impact on students.

"I am privileged to do what I do, and I am driven by the knowledge that I make a difference."

As the teaching profession faces an unprecedented challenge during the COVID-19 crisis, Dr Sleap said the awards have taken on a new significance for him.

"I have never been so proud to be a public school teacher within the NSW Department of Education," he said.

"My colleagues have been working tirelessly developing new resources, learning new teaching techniques and supporting students in many different ways to ensure their needs are being met.

"The importance of the teaching profession has never been in such focus.

"To be acknowledged for teaching and leadership in education at such a time is truly an honour."

Now in their fourth year, the Commonwealth Bank Teaching Awards are presented in partnership with national charity Schools Plus and have evolved to be one of Australia's most prestigious prizes with a focus on educators working in disadvantaged communities.

"We are delighted to play a part in identifying and awarding 12 inspirational teachers and school leaders each year who have made a positive and tangible impact on their schools and communities," Commonwealth Bank head of community investment Nathan Barker said.

"These awards not only honour their incredible work in engaging young minds to learn, but also recognise a dedication to teaching in areas that need it most."

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