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The Prime Minister's Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Education
These awards honour outstanding and innovative early childhood educators for their leadership, exemplary early childhood education practices, and their commitment to help build the foundation children need to make the best possible start in life.
How do I get started?
Start the process today by downloading a nomination form.
Nomination deadline
Nominations for the 2025 Prime Minister's Awards must be submitted to the Prime Minister's Awards office by January 15, 2025 (11:59 PM Pacific standard time).
Who is eligible?
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada;
- Educators who have successfully completed training in early childhood education and care;
- Candidates who have provided direct education and care to young children at least 15 hours per week in a licensed childcare centre for the past three years.
Here is the full list of eligibility criteria.
What do recipients receive?
Recipients of the award receive the following:
- A certificate from the Prime Minister
- Promotion of their best practices in early education and care
- National recognition for their contribution to excellence in early childhood education and commitment to help build the foundation children need to make the best possible start in life.
How do I nominate an early childhood educator?
Nominators need to submit a detailed nomination package that includes:
- A completed and signed nomination form
- A detailed nomination text that demonstrates how the educator meets each of the four selection criteria
- Three letters of support from individuals who are familiar with the nominee and the work they do as a successful educator
- Supporting documentation that confirms the educator's eligibility
- A copy of the nominee's training certification, degree or diploma in early childhood education and care
- A copy of the setting's operating license
- A statement of employment from the nominee's supervisor confirming that the nominee has worked at least 15 hours per week providing direct education and care to young children in a licensed Canadian setting for a minimum of three years
What if I have a question?
If you have any questions or encounter any issues during the nomination process, please contact the Prime Ministers Awards by:
- Email: primeministersawards-prixdupremierministre@ised-isde.gc.ca
- Visiting the Contact Us page on the Government of Canada's website
For more information, go here.
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