- Four teachers and 24 public schools named as finalists, recognising the exceptional impact of Western Australian public school teachers and schools
- Record 190 nominations received across eight award categories
- Winners to be announced at a presentation event on Monday, 16 November
- Supports Cook Labor Government’s commitment to investing in education
Education Minister Sabine Winton has today announced the finalists for the 2026 WA Education Awards, recognising the outstanding work of public school teachers and schools across Western Australia.
A record 190 nominations were received across the eight award categories, marking the highest number since the awards began in 2008 and an 11 per cent increase compared to last year.
From an impressive field of candidates, 24 schools and four teachers have been selected as finalists, with four finalists represented in each category.
The Minister’s Teacher of the Year category once again attracted the highest number of nominations, highlighting the exceptional contribution teachers make to the learning, wellbeing and success of students across the State.
Excellence in early childhood education is also a category again this year, after being introduced as part of last year’s awards to highlight the importance of high-quality early learning in setting children up for success.
The annual WA Education Awards celebrate excellence, innovation and impact across the State’s public education system, celebrating schools and teachers that are creating outstanding opportunities for children and young people.
The winning school or individual in each category will receive $20,000, while the remaining three finalists in the category will receive $5,000. The prize money will fund a school project or professional development.
Winners will be announced at a presentation event on Monday, 16 November.
As stated by Education Minister Sabine Winton:
“It is a pleasure to announce the finalists for the WA Education Awards, recognising the incredible work of Western Australian schools and educators.
“This year’s record number of nominations is testament to the remarkable achievements happening in our public schools across the State every day.
“Teaching is the most noble of professions, and excellence in education is driven by the dedicated people who consistently inspire and support our students, making a genuine difference in their lives.
“This year’s nominees should be exceptionally proud of what they have already achieved, and for being recognised for their significant contribution to education.
“Congratulations to all the finalists. I look forward to celebrating the winners at the awards ceremony in November.”
Finalists for each category:
Minister’s Teacher of the Year
- Joanne Sadler – North Mandurah Primary School
- Lisa Barndon – Wandina Primary School
- Mike Gowland – Fremantle College
- Annette Myer – South East Language Development Centre
Excellence in early childhood education
- Derby District High School
- Joondalup Education Support Centre
- Kalamunda Primary School
- Oakwood Primary School
Excellence in cultural responsiveness
- Dianella Secondary College
- Djidi Djidi Aboriginal School
- Governor Stirling Senior High School
- Ocean Road Primary School
Excellence in disability and inclusion – Sponsored by CaptionConnect
- Butler College
- Fremantle College
- Fremantle Language Development Centre
- Warriapendi Primary School
Excellence in school leadership – Sponsored by The West Australian
- Alkimos College
- Exmouth District High School
- Kinross Primary School
- Wattle Grove Primary School
Excellence in teaching and learning (primary) – Sponsored by Edith Cowan University
- Djidi Djidi Aboriginal School
- East Kalgoorlie Primary School
- Oakwood Primary School
- Warriapendi Primary School
Excellence in teaching and learning (secondary) – Sponsored by Stott Hoare
- Aveley Secondary College
- Exmouth District High School
- Harrisdale Senior High School
- Melville Senior High School
Excellence in wellbeing and learning – Sponsored by Kinetic IT
- Avonvale Primary School
- Kelmscott Senior High School
- Nollamara Primary School
- Waddington Primary School
