Think about a colleague who makes a real difference. The one who stays a little longer to help a struggling student. Who finds a new way to explain something when the first explanation doesn't work. Who brings energy into the classroom, even on the most challenging days. You probably know someone like that. But when was the last time you told them how much their work matters?
The Pearson Educator Awards 2026 are an opportunity to do exactly that: recognise educators who inspire learners, build confidence and open doors to new possibilities. And the clock is ticking. Nominations close on 2 November 2026.
We often measure education through results: completed courses, exam scores and qualifications. Yet some of the most important achievements are harder to measure. The first time a shy student speaks up. The moment a learner realises that making a mistake is part of learning. The confidence to try again after a setback.
For English language teachers, those moments are especially meaningful. Learning English is more than remembering vocabulary or mastering grammar. It's about finding the words to express an idea, connect with another person and make yourself heard. An inspiring teacher creates the conditions for that to happen, one lesson and one conversation at a time.
Think of the colleague who makes students feel safe enough to experiment with language. The one who connects lessons to young people's interests, finds creative ways to include everyone or helps learners see opportunities beyond the classroom. These everyday acts of dedication can have an extraordinary impact. They deserve to be seen.
The Pearson Educator Awards celebrate outstanding contributions to learning across English Language Learning and Higher Education, with a dedicated pathway for K–12 educators in the United States. There are 12 award categories and up to 48 winners worldwide. Winners will be celebrated at a global online ceremony on 2 December 2026 and receive a personalised award plaque. Their achievements may also be featured on Pearson's channels.
For English language educators, the categories reflect different ways of changing lives: Inspiring Young Learners, Empowering Teen Confidence in English, Excellence in Adult English Teaching, Unlocking Global Futures Through English and Finding Their Voices. Two shared categories also recognise AI Innovation in Education and Lifelong Learning Impact.
You don't need to be a Pearson customer to take part. Eligible educators from state and independent institutions are welcome. And you can nominate a colleague, rather than waiting for them to put themselves forward.
A nomination isn't about finding the most impressive list of achievements. It's about explaining what makes a teacher's contribution meaningful, with specific examples of the difference they've made.
For English Language Learning nominations, Pearson asks: “How do you / your colleague inspire students to be themselves in English?”
Perhaps your colleague helped reluctant speakers find their voice. Perhaps they developed an activity that made English feel relevant to students' lives. Or perhaps they supported learners with very different needs, making sure everyone had a chance to succeed.
Choose the category that best fits their work and share their story through a written or video submission. Be specific: what did they do, what changed for their learners and why did it matter? The strongest nominations show genuine impact, not just enthusiasm. Before submitting, tell your colleague about the nomination and make sure they are willing to participate. Submissions must be created by the person entering; AI-generated entries are not permitted under the awards rules.
Teachers are used to celebrating other people's progress. They congratulate students, recognise small victories and encourage everyone to keep going. But how often do we turn that same attention towards the educators standing beside us?
A nomination is a simple but meaningful way to say: “I see what you do. I know it matters.” It can bring a colleague's work to the attention of a global community and remind them that their everyday efforts are making a lasting difference.
There are only days left before the 2 November deadline. Don't let another busy week push this opportunity off your list. Think of the teacher whose dedication inspires you, choose the right category and start putting their story into words today.
The deadline is 2 November 2026. Give an extraordinary colleague the recognition they deserve. Submit your nomination today!
Great teaching changes lives. Your nomination could help the world see it.
Referenze iconografiche: Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock