The Prime Minister's Awards recognize teachers and early childhood educators for their achievements in education. The Early Childhood Education award category honours early childhood educators for their leadership, exemplary early childhood education practices and commitment to helping build the foundation children need to make the best possible start in life.
Nominate early childhood educators for their leadership, exemplary early childhood education practices and commitment to helping build the foundation children need to make the best possible start in life.
Prime Minister's Awards at a glance
When is the nomination period?
Nomination packages must be submitted to the Prime Minister's Awards by January 13, 2027 — 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.
Who is eligible?
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents
- Educators who have successfully completed training in early childhood education and care
- Educators who have provided direct education and care to young children for at least 15 hours per week in a licenced child care centre for at least three years
Who can nominate?
Any person or group with direct knowledge of the nominee's contribution, such as parents of the children receiving education and care, colleagues, centre's director or supervisor, and community leaders.
The following types of nominations are not allowed:
- self-nominations
- posthumous nominations
- nominations for retired educators
- nominations from immediate family members.
What do award recipients get?
- A certificate from the Prime Minister
- National recognition for their contribution to excellence in early childhood education and commitment to helping build the foundation children need to make the best possible start in life
How do I nominate an early childhood educator?
Submit a nomination package that includes:
- a completed and signed nomination form
- detailed nomination text that shows how the educator meets each of the four selection criteria
- three letters of support
- a copy of the nominee's training certification, degree or diploma in early education and care
- a copy of the early childhood education setting's operating licence
- a statement of employment written by the nominee's supervisor
How do I submit a nomination?
Email the nomination package to: primeministersawards-prixdupremierministre@ised-isde.gc.ca. You and the nominee will receive a confirmation email within 72 hours.
Questions?
For more information, consult the frequently asked questions.
For nomination related questions, email: primeministersawards-prixdupremierministre@ised-isde.gc.ca.
For general inquiries, please complete the contact form.
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