2026 National Education Summit Melbourne Teacher Awards
Celebrating innovative teachers and outstanding leaders
Melbourne 2025 Teacher Award Winners
Innovation in Teaching: Jacqui Bowman, Classroom Teacher, St Robert’s Newtown
Outstanding Leadership: Sam Wright, Vice Principal, Padua College
Do you know an educator who’s making a real difference in the classroom or in leadership? The 2026 National Education Summit Teacher Awards recognise the outstanding teachers and leaders who go above and beyond to inspire students and shape the future of education in two key categories:
Innovation in Teaching
Outstanding Leadership
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
Judging Process
A panel of judges including educators and industry leaders will collaborate to critique and award 3 finalists in each category. The judges will base their decisions on the criteria above, using a Judging Rubric.
Application Process
Educators will nominate a colleague or peer under one of the two categories completing an online application including evidence such as lesson plans, video, online content, or testimonials.
Submissions Open – 10 February 2026
Submissions Close – 30 July 2026
Finalists notified – 10 August 2026
Prizes
Each of the 6 finalists in Melbourne (3 per category) will receive complimentary registration to one of the conferences being held at the Summit. The winner of each category will receive a trophy, certificate of recognition, gift card and other prizes to be confirmed.
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. Winners will be announced and prizes awarded. Media partners will be onsite for photo opportunities and coverage.