Northern Territory Government
Department of Education and Training NT Early Education and Care Awards
Finalists Announced
5 September 2025
The Department of Education and Training is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Northern Territory Education and Care Awards. These awards celebrate the Territory's outstanding early childhood and outside school hours care educators, services and programs.
This year marks the 12th year of the Education and Care Awards.
Susan Bowden, Chief Executive of the Department of Education and Training congratulated all nominees and finalists, emphasising the positive impact they have on early childhood education across the Territory.
"Early childhood educators and programs shape the foundations of lifelong learning. Their dedication and passion make a lasting impact, and I commend every finalist and nominee for the incredible work they do to support our youngest Territorians," she said.
"Being recognised in these awards is a testament to your commitment and excellence. You've made a meaningful difference and that's something to truly celebrate."
The 2025 Northern Territory Education and Care Awards finalists are:
Outstanding Aboriginal Educator - Sponsored by Goodstart Early Learning
Annika Rory - Moriarty FoundationMadison Lampton - Haileybury Rendall Early Learning CentrePatricia Campbell - Milikapiti Preschool
Outstanding Early Childhood Teacher - Sponsored by Kentish Community Services
Tracy Bond - Humpty Doo PreschoolKyria Chapman - Yarralin SchoolEmily Ross - Ngukurr School
Outstanding Educator - Sponsored by Industry Skills Advisory Council NT
Marie Renee Antoinette Valerien-Lajoie - YMCA of the Northern Territory Little Mangoes Child Care CentreEmma McFarlane - Creative Kids Childcare Centre Howard SpringsTania Timu - Tangentyere Council
Outstanding Leader - Sponsored by Catholic Education NT
Rachael Sheppard - Kentish Community ServicesRenee Whiteman - One Tree Wadeye Children and Family CentreDawn Davey - Goodstart Early Learning Tiwi
Outstanding Education and Care Program - Sponsored by Charles Darwin University
Families as First Teachers Program Mimik-ga CentreYarralin PreschoolKentish Early Learning Centre Tennant Creek.
Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Friday 10 October 2025 at the Double Tree Hilton Esplanade.
