Australian Education Awards
Evanne Evans, 17 May 2025
The Australian Education Awards (AEA) stand as the pinnacle of recognition in the nation’s K–12 education sector. Established in 2018 by The Educator, to highlight outstanding achievements across schools, principals, department heads, and teachers who transform students’ lives. Now in its eighth year, the AEA has evolved into a prestigious benchmark for educational excellence in Australia.
A Prestigious National Event
The 2025 awards ceremony is scheduled for Friday, 8 August 2025, at The Star Event Centre in Sydney. This black-tie gala brings together Australia’s leading educators to honour innovation, leadership, and best practices across 29 award categories, including Australian School of the Year, Best STEM Program, and Primary and Secondary School Teacher of the Year.
Judging Criteria and Assessment
Nominees undergo a rigorous evaluation process conducted by an esteemed panel of education experts. Assessment criteria vary by category but generally encompass student outcomes, innovative teaching practices, leadership effectiveness, and contributions to the school culture and community engagement.
Teachers and schools submit detailed applications, including performance data, testimonials and strategic plans, which are meticulously reviewed to ensure that the most impactful and forward-thinking educators are evaluated and recognized.
2025 Excellence Awardees Highlights
The 2025 Excellence Awardees exemplify the diversity and innovation present in Australian education:
- Australian School Principal of the Year: Adrian Camm, Westbourne Grammar School
- Secondary School Teacher of the Year – Government: Bernie Bryan, Maryborough State High School
- Secondary School Teacher of the Year – Non-Government: Chloe Yates, Loreto College Coorparoo
- Best STEM Program: Brisbane South State Secondary College
- Best Use of Technology: Canterbury College
- Innovation in Curriculum Design: Aquinas College
- Best First Nations Education Program: Bellbird Park State Secondary College
- Primary School of the Year – Government: Bandiana Primary School
- Primary School of the Year – Non-Government: Central Coast Grammar School
- Secondary School of the Year – Government: Ashdale Secondary College
- Secondary School of the Year – Non-Government: Canterbury College
- Special Education School of the Year: Lucas Gardens School
The Australian Education Awards not only celebrate individual and institutional achievements but also serve as a platform for sharing best practices and inspiring continuous improvement throughout the global education sector.
As the 2025 awards approach, the anticipation builds to honour those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and impact in shaping the future.
