Sabine Winton, the Education Minister of Western Australia, has announced the finalists for the 2025 WA Education Awards, showcasing the remarkable contributions of educators and schools throughout the region. This year’s awards have set a new benchmark, with a staggering 171 nominations, the highest since the awards were established in 2008.
The WA Education Awards recognize outstanding achievements in education across eight categories, including two new ones introduced this year: the Minister’s Teacher of the Year and an award for excellence in early childhood education. The introduction of these categories aims to highlight exceptional educators who significantly impact their students’ futures.
The nominations reflect a substantial increase of 27 percent compared to last year, underscoring the growing appreciation for dedicated teaching professionals. Among the finalists, there are 28 schools and four teachers who have been recognized for their excellence.
Winners in each category will receive $20,000, while three finalists per category will be awarded $5,000 to support their professional development. The winners will be revealed at a ceremony scheduled for November 17, 2025.
Finalists and Categories for 2025
Notable finalists for the Minister’s Teacher of the Year award include:
– Christopher Lambe – Grandis Primary School
– Emmily Deering – North Tom Price Primary School
– Patricia Levitzke-Gray – Shenton College Deaf Education Centre
– Rhianna Reynolds – Mount Barker Community College
Schools recognized in various categories include:
– Baynton West Primary School
– Esperance Primary School
– Joondalup Education Support Centre
– Karratha Primary School
– Anne Hamersley Primary School
The full list of finalists encompasses a diverse range of schools, reflecting the high standards of education across Western Australia.
Minister Winton’s Remarks
In her announcement, Minister Winton expressed her enthusiasm for the awards, stating, “It is a pleasure to announce the finalists for the WA Education Awards, recognizing the incredible work of our schools and educators.” She emphasized that the record number of nominations highlights the exceptional quality of education in the region.
Winton also noted the significance of the new award categories, which aim to honor teachers who profoundly influence their students’ lives and prepare them for successful careers. She added, “The new excellence in early childhood education award recognizes schools that are going above and beyond in providing high-quality early learning to their school communities.”
As the awards ceremony approaches, anticipation grows for the announcement of the winners, which will celebrate the hard work and dedication of those shaping the future of education in Western Australia.
