Head's prize takes him Down Under (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Head's prize takes him Down Under

8:47am Friday 23rd May 2008 in News By Tony Donnelly

A HEAD teacher from Tewkesbury has won a seven-night adventure in Australia's Red Centre - home to remote townships and stunning natural attractions, including the world's greatest monolith, Uluru.

Peter Goodger, head teacher at Tirlebrook Primary School, won the once-in-a-lifetime adventure after entering a competition at the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) conference which took place in Liverpool at the beginning of May.

Having done his homework, Peter gained full marks in a short quiz about Australia's Northern Territory, qualifying him for a prize draw from which he was selected at random to win the amazing trip.

The trip will take him from the desert township of Alice Springs to iconic Red Centre attractions including Uluru and King's Canyon.

During his visit he'll also have the opportunity to see how the education system works Down Under with a trip to the School of the Air in Alice Springs plus time at a remote school in the Indigenous Titjikala Community, 120km south east of Alice Springs.

Peter said: "I am absolutely delighted to have won this wonderful competition. Australia is somewhere I've always dreamed of visiting and I certainly never thought I'd be heading there this year!

"It will be fascinating and a true privilege to have the chance to meet with the teachers and pupils of a community school and learn about the highlights and challenges of education in such a remote location.

"I can't wait to explore the Northern Territory and share my experiences of the ancient Aboriginal culture spanning 50,000 years with my pupils back here."

Fleur Burrows, Tourism NT's Marketing Manager - Niche - who awarded Peter his prize commented: "We are thrilled to welcome Peter to Australia's Red Centre.

"As well as taking in the must-see natural icons, he'll have the opportunity to really get under the skin of this amazing destination.

"Peter will immerse himself within the local communities and learn about their education systems first hand, while discovering the unique Aboriginal spirit that makes the NT so special."

Tourism NT will be partnering with tour operator Harvey World Travel to facilitate Peter's trip.