Central SA
Free State teachers urged to participate in 25th National Teaching Awards─── ZENANDE MPAME 09:06 Tue, 01 Apr 2025

Educators from the Free State are urged to participate in the 25th National Teaching Awards (NTA), the awards are for high-performing teachers who positively contribute to the ethos and morale of the schools.
The teaching awards are one way the department recognises the exceptional work done by outstanding teachers, frequently under extremely challenging circumstances.
The nomination process for teachers starts at schools, where the schools’ nomination teams select teachers for various categories, the closing date for the nomination is Thursday, 15 May.
“The NTA is for high-performing teachers who positively contribute to the ethos and morale of the schools,” said Free State Department of Education spokesperson Howard Ndaba. “These teachers can apply mitigating strategies during challenging times and help learners to become global citizens through providing value–based education.”
“The awards seek to profile the teaching profession, best teaching practices, and award excellent service. Nomination forms are now available on the website: www.education.fs.gov.za, and on the Free State Department of Education social media platforms.”
There are 15 categories of the NTAs:
- Excellence in Grade R Teaching
- Excellence in Primary School Teaching
- Excellence in Primary School Leadership
- Excellence in Secondary School Teaching
- Excellence in Secondary School Leadership
- Excellence in Special Needs Teaching
- Excellence in Special Needs Leadership
- Excellence in Teaching Mathematics ( GET )
- Excellence in Teaching Mathematics ( FET )
- Excellence in Teaching Natural Sciences
- Excellence in Teaching Physical Science
- Excellence in Technology – Enhanced, Teaching and Learning
- Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award
- National Best Teacher
Two under the provincial excellence category:
- Excellence in teaching Accounting
- Excellence in teaching Agricultural Science
“I invite all our teachers to be part of a momentous occasion, the 2025 National Teaching Awards,” said Free State MEC of Education Dr Julia Maboya. “This prestigious event is our opportunity to recognise, celebrate, and honour the remarkable educators who go above and beyond to uplift education in our province.”
“We call on all schools and communities to nominate outstanding teachers, those whose dedication, innovation, and impact truly make a difference.”
The nomination forms are available at schools, district offices, and online on the Department of Education website, she said.