Do you know someone who proudly demonstrates the values of public education?

Or perhaps you’ve noticed a school community that has been quietly working to improve equity and build capacity for its students and their families?

This is your chance to nominate them for the 2025 Public Education Foundation Awards.

“Public education and its achievements deserve to be celebrated, as do the people and school communities that make those achievements happen,” said NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar.

“I encourage any staff member who knows a person or a school that’s deserving of recognition to nominate them for this year’s Public Education Foundation Awards.”

The awards promote the exceptional work that takes place every day in the NSW public education system – by schools, students, teachers, staff, and volunteers.

There are seven award categories, reflecting public education’s priorities of excellence, diversity, inclusion, belonging and living our values.

“Each day, dedicated individuals within our public education system inspire and uplift those around them,” said Paul Somers, the Public Education Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer.

“The Public Education Awards provide an opportunity to shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes who embody the values of commitment, equity, and excellence in education.”

For further information including how to make a nomination, visit NSW Public Education Awards – Public Education Foundation

Nominations close on Friday 9 May 2025 at 5pm.

2025 Public Education Award Categories

Open to all staff:

• Secretary's Award for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging

Recognising schools and school-based staff: 

• Minister's Award for Excellence in Teaching
• Secretary's Award for Excellent Service
• Secretary's Award for Outstanding School Achievement

Recognising students, parents and volunteers: 

• Minister's Award for Excellence in Student Achievement
• Public School Parent and Volunteer of the Year Award

Recognising Education support staff:

• Secretary's Award for Living Our Values