Nominate excellent teachers for the National Teaching Awards!

28 April 2026 – Statement by Minister David Maynier, Minister of Education Western Cape

Every day, our teachers go above and beyond to shape the future lives and careers of our learners. 

The National Teaching Awards give us the opportunity to honour those who demonstrate commitment, innovation and meaningful impact in our classrooms. 

Nominations close on 15 May 2026, so we urge our schools and districts not to miss this important opportunity to recognise excellence within your school community. 

All teachers, governing bodies and districts are invited to submit nominations according to the qualifying criteria and the nomination guide, which are available on the WCED website: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/national-teaching-awards

Teachers can be nominated in the following categories:

• Excellence in Grade R Teaching
• Excellence in Primary School Teaching (Grades 1–7)
• Excellence in Primary School Leadership
• Excellence in Secondary School Teaching (Grades 8–12)
• Excellence in Secondary School Leadership
• Excellence in Inclusive Education Teaching
• Excellence in Inclusive Education Leadership
• Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (GET)
• Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (FET)
• Excellence in Teaching Natural Sciences
• Excellence in Teaching Physical Sciences
• Excellence in Teaching Life Skills (Grades 1–6)
• Excellence in Technology – Enhanced Teaching and Learning
• National Best Teacher Award
• Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award

The provincial awards ceremony will be held on 28 August 2026, and the winners will go on to represent the Western Cape at the national ceremony during October 2026.

Let us celebrate teaching excellence across our province, and build a better future for our children in the Western Cape!

Read more about our 2025 provincial winners here: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/2025-national-teaching-awards-provincial-winners