In 2022 ACEL celebrates its impressive 37th year since the original inception where the first Gold Medal were originally awarded to Victoria’s Robert Fordham and Western Australia’s Edwin Harold. Since their inception, the ACEL national awards have grown in stature with educators being recognised for their contributions across several categories.. We also recognise media organisations/journalists/programs that contribute significantly to raising the profile of the education sector and make valuable contributions to the national conversation via “The ACEL National Media Award’.

Our National Awards honours educational leaders who have dedicated themselves to the improvement of student and educational outcomes.

View our ACEL national awards winners for 2022 below.

ACEL Gold Medal
Most Outstanding Contribution to the study and practice of educational administration and leadership.

Karen Spiller OAM CF

ACEL Presidential Citation
This award was presented annually to an ACEL member who had, because of particular endeavours, made an outstanding contribution in furthering the Objects of the Council.

Professor Dorothy Andrews

ACEL Keith Tronc Award for Outstanding Teacher Leadership
This award is given annually to teachers who have demonstrated outstanding practice in the classroom and as a result have made a difference to colleagues and the lives of students in their care.

Emily Sinclair

ACEL Hedley Beare Award for Educational Writing
This award aims to promote quality writing by educators about educational leadership.

Peter Hutton

ACEL Nganakarrawa Award
This award is presented annually to those whose general excellence in educational administration and whose learning, experience and contribution to the Council have earned lasting respect and gratitude.

Kevin Richardson

ACEL Fellowships
Outstanding contribution to the improvement of student and organisational outcomes.

Dale Morrow
Josie Crisara
Dr Patrick Coughlan
Dr Jake Madden

ACEL Leadership Award
Excellent educational leadership in developing and implementing a significant educational initiative, conducting research or influencing educational policy.

Deonne Smith
Rowena Fox
Adjunct Professor Iyla Davies OAM
Danielle Cronin CF
Professor Janet Clinton
Townsville Catholic Education - Tammi Webber, Krista O'Connor and Janelle Knack
Joel Hohn