It is Dr Poh Wah Hillock’s personalised approach to ensuring her students unlocked the potential of mathematics – a notoriously daunting field of study – to better manage the transition from secondary to tertiary learning that sets her teaching apart from that of other lecturers.

Her award citation summed her contribution up in this way: Poh does not just open doors, she guides her students through”.

“Supporting students during their first year of mathematics is critical to set them up for success throughout their studies,” the former high school maths teacher said.

“If they stick with it through the first year, they understand the process, then everything else gets easier.

“That what makes me passionate about the work I do.”

UQ vice-chancellor Deborah Terry said Hillocks contribution extended well beyond the classroom.

“Poh’s positive impact is helping so many students to bridge the gap between high school and university and thrive in this areas, where as a nation we have a shortage of expertise including in all levels of teaching,” she said.

Hillocks said she had always loved how mathematics helped explain the world.

“It’s not just about having one correct answer, it’s a way of thinking, and I use practical models and real examples in my teaching,” she said.

Hillock was one of five UQ teachers who won awards at the Universities Australia conference, presented by Federal Education Minister Jason Clare. Academics from Queensland University of Technology and Central Queensland University also figured in the awards.