ACEL’s status as the largest independent, cross sectoral, profession-led organisation is most visible in its recognition of educators that ‘make a difference’ in diverse settings. Award recipients are nominated by their peers for work that has had an impact beyond their own school or organisation. Fellowships are given at the branch and national level to reward contributions made to ACEL as board members, branch executives and writers.

Major awards like the Gold Medal, Hedley Beare Award for Writing, Nganakarrawa Award and the Keith Tronc Award for Outstanding Teacher Leadership are given to educators demonstrating specific attributes and who have been engaged in great work over time. In 2018, we are introducing a new recognition – a National Media Award for relevant and responsible reporting on the sector.