Teacher Awards - Recognising Excellence in Education

Celebrating innovative teachers and outstanding leaders at the 2025 National Education Summit in Brisbane and Melbourne

Do you know an educator who’s making a real difference in the classroom or in leadership? The National Education Summit Teacher Awards 2025 recognise the outstanding teachers and leaders who go above and beyond to inspire students and shape the future of education in two key categories:

  1. Innovation in Teaching

  2. Outstanding Leadership

Nominate a colleague who’s excelling in innovation or leadership. Winners will be announced at the National Education Summit Social in Brisbane and Melbourne in 2025.

Entries close 30th June – Submit your nomination today! Each category will recognise two exceptional teachers per event.

Category 1: Innovation in Teaching Award

For this award, judges will be looking for:

  • Creative Teaching Methods that inspire students and enhance engagement in the classroom

  • Techniques that adapt to diverse learning needs and styles

  • Integration of Technology to creative dynamic learning experiences

  • Creation of unique and original curriculum materials or activities

  • Encouraging collaboration among students or between educators

  • Evidence of improved student outcomes or skills development

Category 2: Outstanding Leadership Award

For this award, judges will be looking for:

  • Create and communicate vision and innovation in your school

  • Positive influence on student success and staff development

  • Demonstrate success in building strong teams encouraging collaboration

  • Ability to inspire, empower, and mentor

  • Contribution to advancing the teaching profession

  • Success in initiatives such as student achievement improvements, school development and community engagement

How Judging Works

A panel of educators and industry leaders will collaborate to critique and award 3 finalists per category from both Brisbane and Melbourne events.
The judging will be based on the established criteria using a Judging Rubric to ensure transparency and fairness.


How to Nominate

Nominations are open to all educators. To nominate a colleague:

  1. Complete the online application form (linked)

  2. Submit supporting materials such as lesson plans, video recordings, testimonials, or examples of work

Submissions Open: 7 April 2025
Submissions Close: 30 June 2025
Finalists Notified: 14 July 2025


Prizes for Winners and Finalists

All finalists (3 per category) in Brisbane and Melbourne will receive:

  • Complimentary registration to one of the Conferences being held at the Summit and attendance at Summit Social

  • Category Winners will receive:

    • Trophy

    • Certificate of Recognition

    • Gift Card

    • Other exciting prizes (TBC)


Celebrate with Us at the Awards Ceremony

Finalists will be invited to the Summit Social Networking Event at the conclusion of Day 1 of the Summit.

  • Time: 4:00pm – 5:30pm

  • Event Details: Winners will be announced and prizes awarded. Media partners will be onsite for photo opportunities and coverage.