- Nominations are now open to celebrate excellence in public schools across Western Australia at the WA Education Awards 2026
- Staff, school council and board chairs, and P&C presidents encouraged to nominate their schools and teachers
Nominations are now open for the WA Education Awards 2026 to celebrate the valuable work of schools, school leaders, and teachers who demonstrate excellence in the classroom and beyond.
Following last year’s success with a record-breaking 171 nominations, this year will again include the two additional award categories; the Minister’s Teacher of the Year and Excellence in early childhood education.
The Minister’s Teacher of the Year award will go to an educator who displays leadership in working with colleagues, parents and the community, sharing expertise and initiating activities that improve educational opportunities for all students.
Categories for the WA Education Awards 2026 include:
- Minister’s Teacher of the Year;
- Excellence in early childhood education;
- Excellence in school leadership;
- Excellence in teaching and learning – primary;
- Excellence in teaching and learning – secondary;
- Excellence in disability and inclusion;
- Excellence in wellbeing and learning; and
- Excellence in cultural responsiveness.
In 2026, 32 finalists across Western Australia will once again be recognised for their innovation and commitment to excellence in education.
Nominations close at 5pm on Wednesday, 29 July 2026, with the final presentation event set to take place in November.
The winning school in each category, and the individual category, will be awarded $20,000, and three finalists in each category will receive $5,000 to put towards professional development, a school project, student resources or other suitable activities.
Find out more about how to nominate here: www.education.wa.edu.au/wa-education-awards
As stated by Education Minister Sabine Winton:
“I am excited for this opportunity to recognise our outstanding schools and teachers with nominations for the WA Education Awards now open.
“Each and every day our school leaders, teachers and school staff make a difference in the lives of young people and our communities across the State.
“Their dedication remains an inspiration to me and these awards highlight the exceptional contributions of so many educators and public schools.
“I look forward to seeing the spotlight on this year’s nominees, each of which should be proud of all they have already achieved.
“I am particularly excited to see the nominations for the Minister’s Teacher of the Year award, which recognises the exceptional impact teachers have on the lives of students and their school communities.”
