The recipients of the 2026 DAISY Awards have been announced. Through its support of the School Health Nurse Program, we are able to honour and recognise the care and commitment of nurses who work in our schools every day.
While we named two recipients in 2025, this year’s nominations were so strong that three nurses have been honoured. Congratulations to the 2026 DAISY Awards recipients, Jenny Purtell, Sarah Gaffney and Sarah Fielding!
While we celebrate our DAISY Award recipients today, school health nurses serve a vital role in helping to keep children and young people safe, happy and healthy.
Jenny, Sarah and Sarah were nominated by a mix of school and DECYP staff as well as parents and carers. They have been recognised for their compassion, commitment, and deep connection to students, families and their school communities.
Our 2026 DAISY Award recipients
Jenny Purtell works at St Helens District School. Her nominators highlighted her caring nature and ability to make children feel safe and valued. One parent noted “My children absolutely love Nurse Jenn for her genuinely caring nature and the way she connects so beautifully with students. Most of all, she has a wonderful way of making students feel important, valued, and safe, and that truly sets her apart.”
Sarah Gaffney works at Sorell School. Her nominators highlighted her dedication to the school community, working tirelessly to provide for students with the upmost care and expertise. A teacher described Sarah as “grounded and professional”, quietly implementing “programmes, workshops and guests for the students to be informed with health issues.” Sarah also “supports everybody and cares deeply about her work.”
Sarah Fielding works at Hellyer College. Her nominators have said she consistently demonstrates compassionate nursing and unwavering advocacy for the young people in her care. An Assistant Principal said “Sarah’s practice is deeply person-centred, trauma-informed, and developmentally appropriate. She takes time to listen, builds rapport with students who may be anxious or reluctant to seek help, and communicated health information in clear, empowering ways.”
Congratulations to all 19 nominees, who received a tremendous amount of support from students, families, principals, teachers and support staff.
Celebrating International Nurses Day
Our department’s DAISY Awards coincide with International Nurses Day!
It’s an opportunity for global celebration of the difference nurses make in the lives of others.
Our school health nurses empower children and young people in our schools and support school to reach their full potential. They also support staff in our schools with ongoing health education, share informative health messages across schools and in our communities.
They’re making a big difference, setting children and young people up for a bright life and a positive future.