The future begins with great education
SCHOOLS PLUS TEACHING AWARDS
You change lives every day, and that deserves recognition.
The Schools Plus Teaching Awards exist to celebrate exceptional teachers and school leaders like you — and to help you extend your impact far beyond your classroom or school gate.
If you’re driving meaningful change for students and communities, apply today.
Applications open from Monday, 2 March to Tuesday, 7 April 2026
Outstanding educators often do extraordinary work with limited recognition, time, and support.
Yet Australia’s education system needs leaders who can influence what’s possible — for students, schools, and the profession.
Established in 2016, the Schools Plus Teaching Awards identify and support Australia’s most impactful teachers and school leaders.
Each year, 12 exceptional educators are selected to become Teaching Fellows and are guided through a unique, high-impact professional learning experience designed to grow their leadership, influence, and voice.
AWARD PRIZE
- Teaching Fellowship Prize valued at $20,000, including $10,000 for a high impact school visit
- A 12-month professional learning program
- Membership to a national alumni network of high-performing educators and leaders
- National recognition of your work across the education sector and beyond
HOW TO APPLY
- Read the Awards Guidelines to check your eligibility, choose your category and understand the selection criteria and key dates
- Register on the Schools Plus portal
- Complete your application on the portal
- Submit your application before 9.00pm (AEST) Tuesday, 7 April 2026
- Check your email to confirm your application has been submitted
For more information, visit our FAQ’s or reach out to the team on (02) 8318 1413 or awards@schoolsplus.org.au.
80%
of recipients took on new leadership positions after the program
90%
of recipients said the program enhanced their capacity to influence the education system
97%
of recipients said the program made them feel more valued as members of the teaching profession
“The professional learning alongside other high-potential educators and leaders is rare. I have not found an experience like that anywhere else.’’
“It has opened up a world of potential and perspectives on education and how we can create a better system for all.”