The Scottish Education Awards 2023 have officially launched. The accolades are back for their 21st year, hosted by the Daily Record and with Education Scotland as proud main sponsors.

The awards are held to recognise and celebrate the work and dedication of educators across Scotland. Nominations will be open until 24 February. The lucky nominees will be shortlisted and invited as guests of honour to a special awards ceremony in Glasgow on Wednesday 7 June.

This year’s theme is centred around showing appreciation for the incredible work done by schools and educators across Scotland. Nominations are open to all publicly-funded schools across all sectors; from primary and secondary schools to Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) settings and special schools.

We’re encouraging as many people as possible to spread the word and show their appreciation by heading to the Scottish Education Awards website and nominating those who make Scottish education what it is. You can nominate your chosen setting or educator for one or more of the 11 award categories below.

• Community Learning and Development Award
• Parent and Family Engagement Award
• Gaelic Education Award
• Making a difference (Early Learning and Childcare)
• Making a difference (Primary)
• Making a difference (Secondary)
• Curriculum Innovation Award
• Digital Innovator of the Year
• Teacher of the Year
• Headteacher of the Year
• Lifetime Achievement Award

The winners of the Making a difference (Primary and Secondary), Digital innovator of the year, Teacher and Headteacher of the year and the Lifetime achievement of the year will automatically be nominated for the Pearson UK-wide Teaching Awards, held in London later in the year.

Education Scotland’s Chief Executive and HM Chief Inspector of Education, Gayle Gorman said: "I am delighted to announce that we are once again supporting the Scottish Education Awards in 2023. We want to help recognise, share and celebrate everything that those working in Scottish education have achieved. We know that there is great work going on, across all the categories, and we are looking forward to seeing nominations from all over Scotland and from every sector."

Do you know a sensational school worthy of the Making a Difference Award or an exceptional educator who deserves the coveted Teacher of the Year accolade? Simply head to the Scottish Education Awards website to make your nomination before the deadline of 24 February 2023.

Education Scotland is holding a series of webinars on the 7 February and 16 February at 4pm for anyone unsure on the nomination process and what makes a strong candidate for the awards. Can’t make those dates? There’s also a handy drop-in session on 8 February at 12pm.