PMs Education Excellence Awards Finalists

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Nikki Kaye

Wellington, May 9, 2017

Fourteen finalists representing 10 early learning services, schools and kura have been chosen from 142 entries in the prestigious 2017 Prime Ministers Education Excellence Awards.

I want to congratulate all the finalists on getting this far.

It is a huge achievement meaning they have demonstrated excellence in education to the panel of education experts.

Extensive range

This years finalists include a broad range of educators from early learning services, a kohanga reo, primary, intermediate, and secondary schools from right across the country.

I was particularly pleased to see that four finalists are part of Communities of Learning Kahui Ako in their region. Belonging to such a community fosters these schools ability to share their good practice.

Each of the finalists has shown innovative and effective teaching practice. They demonstrate how important it is to work with students and the wider community to ensure every child succeeds, and for teachers to work together and base their decisions on evidence.

Every finalist and their community should take pride in what theyre doing and know that they are great examples of innovation and excellence to others throughout New Zealand and internationally.

It is important that we take time to recognise and celebrate the very best in education, and learn from the innovation taking place at every level right across the country.

A judging panel made up of a range of outstanding New Zealanders will visit finalists during May and June to see them in action.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony celebrating the best in education on 27 June. They will receive a financial award and a professional development opportunity.

The Finalists

Nikki Kaye is Education Minister of New Zealand.