Melton is home to two of Victoria’s longest-serving teachers, who have been recognised for their dedication to schools, students and families with a Recognition of Service to Victorian Education honour.

Minister for Education Ben Carroll congratulated 275 staff on being honoured for 40, 45, 50 and 55 years of service to public education in Victoria at an official celebration at the Pullman Melbourne on the Park on Sunday, 19 May.

Karen Ambrose from Exford Primary School and Benjamin Bykersma from Melton Primary School have been recognized for 40 years’ of dedicated service.

Statewide, 166 people are being honoured for 40 years of service, 49 for 45 years, 49 for 50 years and 11 for 55 years.

The Allan Labor Government is making a record investment in school workforce initiatives to attract, recruit, support and retain teachers and support staff, ensuring a strong and sustainable school workforce well into the future.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Ben Carroll

“I thank all the long-serving teachers and staff being recognised for their contribution to education in Victoria that has spanned multiple generations.”

“I know everyone in Melton join us in offering their congratulations to these dedicated professionals, who have spent decades tirelessly supporting our children and young people.”

“Long-serving teachers and support staff are the backbone of our education system and I congratulate those being honoured this year on their well-deserved recognition.”

Quote attributable to Member for Melton Steve McGhie

"The teachers being honoured for their service have helped deliver a world class education to countless students in Melton. We thank them for their hard work and dedication to our schools and the local community."