The world around us is constantly changing. One thing remains certain: Estonia’s dedicated education professionals do exceptional work that deserves recognition—both in everyday life and once a year at the national level. Outstanding teachers and other education professionals serve as role models and contribute to shaping a better future for Estonia by supporting each learner’s development.
The Ministry of Education and Research is honoured to recognise educators and education supporters at the annual Teacher of the Year Gala, highlighting those whose achievements over the past three years or throughout their lifetime have served as an inspiration to others. The award recipients have made a significant contribution to supporting learners' development, fostering collaboration, and implementing innovative teaching practices in educational institutions. To ensure that the most deserving candidates receive recognition, everyone has the opportunity to nominate individuals who stand out through their actions, attitudes, commitment, and energy.
Let’s also acknowledge those who contribute to education more broadly! Valuable learning and teaching partners may include youth workers, businesses, institutions, or innovative educational initiatives.
Nominations for Teacher of the Year awards—including teachers, school leaders, lecturers, education contributors, and outstanding educational initiatives—can be submitted until 10 April via the following link HERE.
National Awards for Outstanding Achievements
The Government of the Republic awards annual prizes in twelve categories for outstanding professional achievements, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award to one education professional. The national annual award is €10,000, while the Lifetime Achievement Award amounts to €65,000.
The awards will be presented at the Teacher of the Year Gala titled "Estonia Learns and Thanks", held at Pärnu Concert Hall on 4 October, just before World Teachers' Day. This year marks the 13th edition of the event, led by the Ministry of Education and Research and the Estonian Education Personnel Union. The gala will be broadcast live on Estonian Television. For more information, contact: gala@hm.ee.
Nominate a Candidate in the Following Categories:
- Preschool Teacher of the Year
- Primary School Teacher of the Year
- Class Teacher of the Year
- Lower Secondary Subject Teacher of the Year
- Upper Secondary Teacher of the Year
- Vocational Teacher of the Year
- Support Specialist of the Year
- Hobby Education Teacher of the Year
- Lecturer of the Year
- Educational Institution Leader of the Year
- Educational Achievement of the Year
- Friend of Education Award
- National Lifetime Achievement Award for an Education Professional
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