2026 Award Categories

With so many inspiring educators to celebrate, it's impossible to choose just one. That's why our judges will select four winners in each category, reflecting the many ways educators make a difference to learners around the world.

12 Categories

Recognizing excellence across Higher Education, US K12 and English Language Learning educators

48 Winners

Celebrated through the Pearson Educator Awards 2026

4 Winners Per Category

Recognizing educators from different regions around the world

Our Headline Categories

Open to English Language Learning and Higher Education educators, including K12 educators*, our headline categories celebrate those shaping the future of learning and inspiring lifelong learning journeys. Four winners will be selected in each category globally, with winners recognised across English Language Learning and Higher Education, including K12 educators*.

AI Innovation in Education Award

Recognizing educators who use AI responsibly and creatively to improve learning outcomes, engagement, and student success at scale.

Lifelong Learning Impact Award

Celebrating educators whose leadership has made a lasting difference to students, lasting beyond the classroom and into a lifelong learning journey.

All Categories

Explore categories for English Language Learning educators, and Higher Education, including K12 educators*

Each of the following feature five additional award categories, with four winners selected in each category globally*. Choose the category that best reflects your area of practice and impact. For full eligibility requirements, please see the Terms and Conditions.

Higher Education / K12 Educators

Teaching Excellence Award

Recognizing educators whose teaching consistently delivers clear, high quality learning and supports student progress.

Education Impact Project of the Year

Celebrating projects or initiatives that have delivered measurable and meaningful impact for learners.

Inclusive and Accessible Learning

Recognizing educators who foster learning environments that support students with disabilities and additional learning needs.

Student Engagement and Success

Celebrating educators who go above and beyond to keep students engaged and fast track-outcomes throughout their learning journey.

Preparing Students for the Future Award

Recognizing who connect learning to life beyond graduation, building real world readiness, adaptability, and skills that matter next.

English Language Learning

Inspiring Young Learners

Recognizing educators whose research advances knowledge, informs practice, or influences policy within their discipline or beyond the institution.

Empowering teen confidence in English

Early experiences shape a love of language that lasts a lifetime— recognizing primary educators who build confidence and set young learners up for long-term success.

Excellence in Adult English Teaching

Recognizing educators who create supportive, accessible learning environments for adult learners from diverse backgrounds. Giving them the confidence and skills they need to be themselves in English and thrive.

Unlocking Global Futures Through English

Celebrating educators who empower learners to use English as a gateway to new opportunities and the real-world readiness needed to pursue education and careers abroad.

Finding their Voices

Celebrating teachers who create safe, supportive environments where learners gain the confidence to communicate clearly, speak up, and express themselves in English.

* K12 entries are open to educators based in the United States only.

Ready to nominate?

Nominate Now