Nominations for the 2017 NT Education and Care Awards are now open – nominate yourself, an educator, a service or program that you think demonstrates outstanding commitment to delivering quality outcomes to Territory children and their families.

The NT Education and Care Awards recognise the fantastic achievements of early childhood and school age educators, services and programs.

Winners will receive $3,000 towards their professional learning objectives; to enhance their awareness and understanding of quality practices in education and care; and ultimately lead to quality improvements in education and care services across the Territory.

Award categories are:

o   Emerging educator

o   Outstanding educator

o   Outstanding leadership

o   Outstanding achievement in community engagement

o   Outstanding achievement in innovative practice

“Birth to eight years of age is a key learning time so it’s important that we recognise those educators who are working hard to promote lifelong education, health and wellbeing outcomes for Territory children,” said Susan Bowden, General Manager of Early Childhood Education and Care, Department of Education.

“Getting the right start in life is essential for a child’s development.

“It shapes their ability to succeed at school, stay healthy and socially connected.

“A service that provides an engaging and high quality environment has a major influence on a child’s start in life and ensures they are provided with the best possible opportunities to succeed.”

Over 300 early childhood and school-aged services are eligible to nominate for the awards, including long day care, family day care, kindergarten, preschool, outside school hours care programs, rural and remote early childhood services, Families as First Teachers, playgroups and other early childhood programs catering for children from birth. 

Third party nominations close on 19 June and self-nominations close on 3 July. 

The awards ceremony will be held on 6 October in Darwin.

For more information about the awards and to nominate an outstanding early childhood or school-age educator, service or program, visit www.ntecawards.net. 

Media – for further information contact Joss Wyer 0401 119 215