Every day, across classrooms, school halls, and virtual learning spaces, educators are quietly performing extraordinary feats – finding new ways to connect with students, leading their colleagues through change, and putting everything they have into helping young people thrive. Yet, all too often, their efforts go unrecognised. The 2025 National Education Summit Teacher Awards aim to change that.
In 2025, the Summit will proudly honour the exceptional educators who go above and beyond, making a lasting impact in their communities. Set to take place at the National Education Summit events in Brisbane (31 July – 1 August) and Melbourne (28 – 29 August), the awards will celebrate teachers who lead with passion, innovation, and a deep commitment to student success.
This is your chance to recognise a colleague, mentor, or peer who inspires, innovates, and leads. Nominations are open, and entries close on 30 June 2025 – so don’t miss your chance to shine a light on those making a difference.
Who the awards are for
The Innovation in Teaching category is all about those who are reimagining what learning can look like. These are educators who bring fresh thinking into their classrooms – whether through creative lesson design, adaptive strategies for different learning needs, or the smart use of technology to boost engagement.
These are the teachers who spark curiosity and encourage collaboration, and whose students often leave class not just knowing more, but excited to keep learning.
The Outstanding Leadership category, on the other hand, recognises those who lead with clarity and purpose. These individuals may be school principals, department heads, or informal leaders among their peers – but what unites them is their ability to build strong teams, lift others up, and lead change in ways that truly benefit their school communities.
Great leaders in education don’t just manage – they inspire. They foster inclusive cultures, mentor the next generation of educators, and create environments where students and staff alike can thrive.
The judging process
All nominations will be carefully reviewed by a panel of experienced educators and industry leaders.
Finalists – 3 per category at each location – will be selected and notified by 14 July 2025. These finalists will then be invited to attend the National Education Summit Social event, either in Brisbane or Melbourne, where the winners will be announced.
More than recognition – a celebration
Finalists for both the Brisbane and Melbourne awards will receive complimentary access to a Conference being held at the Summit, along with an invitation to the celebratory Summit Social Networking Event, held at the conclusion of Day 1 of the event.
It’s a chance not only to be recognised, but to connect with fellow educators, share stories, and be inspired. With sponsors and partners present and prizes awarded, the event promises to be one of the Summit’s most uplifting highlights.
Category winners will be awarded a trophy, a certificate of recognition, a gift card, and a collection of exciting additional prizes. But perhaps the most meaningful reward is knowing that their work has resonated far beyond their own classroom or school.
This year’s awards are proudly sponsored by Be Challenged in Brisbane and Elevate Education in Melbourne, 2 organisations that understand the power of great teaching and share the Summit’s commitment to celebrating excellence.
Nominate an educator who deserves the spotlight
Nominations are open to educators of all kinds – from classroom teachers to curriculum leaders. You can nominate a colleague, a mentor, or even yourself. All you need to do is visit the National Education Summit website, complete the online application form, and include supporting materials such as lesson plans, testimonials, videos, or examples of work. Submissions are open now and close on 30 June 2025
Let’s celebrate the educators who go above and beyond
Too often, teachers work tirelessly behind the scenes. The National Education Summit Teacher Awards are your opportunity to make sure their achievements are recognised on the centre stage.
Whether it’s a creative lesson that helped a student finally grasp a tricky concept, or a leadership initiative that brought an entire school together, now is the time to tell those stories – and honour the people behind them.
If someone comes to mind as you read this, don’t wait. Nominate them today and help us celebrate the educators who are lighting the way for the next generation.
https://www.nationaleducationsummit.com.au/teacher-awards
