On lookout for outstanding teachers and leaders

It is nomination time for parents and secondary school students as they consider the outstanding teachers and leaders in their school or centre who positively influence learning and performance.

Nominations have opened for the 2011-2012 round of the National Excellence in Teaching and Leadership Awards, with the theme Teachers Count.

Terry O’Connell, chairman of the NEiTA foundation, says the awards programme acknowledges the profound impact outstanding teachers have on our students, our community, our education system and ultimately our country.

“We’ve long recognised that outside the family home, a teacher is the greatest influence on a student’s learning and performance,” he said.

For 15 years NEiTA has helped pioneer teaching awards as a way of acknowledging the important work of teachers within the community.

“Over 3000 ECE, primary, intermediate and secondary school teachers have been nominated for awards. These teachers continue to positively contribute to the reputation of the profession,” said O’Connell.

Nominations are open until 31st August, 2011. Forms can be downloaded from the NEiTA website www.neita.co.nz and are also available at schools and ECE centres nationwide, and libraries.

All teachers and leaders nominated receive a certificate of nomination, with 20 area representatives selected to go forward to receive Regional Awards for Excellence in Teaching and Leadership in Wellington during May, 2012. From these, ten teachers/leaders will go on to receive National Awards at their schools or centres later in the year.

National awardees will receive professional development grants from a pool totalling $35,000. Two $5000 and three $2500 grants will each be made for excellence in teaching and for excellence in leadership.