Dr Christopher Boerdam

ETAQ proudly recognises Dr Christopher Boerdam as a recipient of the 2026 Peter Botsman Memorial Award for his outstanding and sustained contributions to English education in Queensland. For 25 years, Chris has been a passionate teacher and advocate, leading change across systems, schools, and authorities.

As Learning Area Leader of English at St Aidan's Anglican Girls' School, Chris introduced English and Literature Extension and expanded curriculum-adjacent programs including debating, public speaking, the Ethics Olympiad, and the Philosothon, earning recognition as 2025 QDU Debating Coordinator of the Year.

Chris's statewide influence is extensive. A former district panel chair of English Extension, he now serves in multiple assessor roles across multiple subjects for QCAA. He also presents regularly at ETAQ conferences, sharing his expertise with generosity that reaches beyond his own context. Outside of the school context, he leads the Queensland School of Continental Philosophy, offering free public seminars and reading groups.

Across every sphere of his work, Chris demonstrates exceptional leadership, deep expertise, and an authentic sense of charity and care. His influence is felt by students, colleagues, and the broader community, and his contributions have strengthened English education in Queensland in ways both visible and enduring. Chris's leadership, scholarly expertise, and authentic charity make him a most deserving recipient.