Uncover the gems in your school communities for World Teachers’ Day 2025

To support the celebrations, the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) has launched the NSW Teaching Gems Map for the third consecutive year – an interactive platform where students, families and community members can share messages of thanks to the teachers who have made a difference in their lives.

Over the past two years, more than 20,000 messages have been submitted, with close to 10,000 in 2024 alone. From Narellan Vale Public School to Macquarie Fields High School, Terranora Public School, Orange Anglican Grammar and St Margaret Mary’s Primary, teachers past and present have been recognised for their impact.

NESA CEO Paul Martin said World Teachers’ Day is about celebrating the everyday influence of teachers both inside and outside the classroom.  

“World Teachers’ Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the immense impact of teachers – not just on students, but on families and communities. Our teachers are mentors, motivators and changemakers.

“They support young learners to develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive. We know from the tens of thousands of messages we’ve received that teachers across the state leave a lasting legacy,” Mr Martin said.

While most of the world celebrates World Teachers’ Day on 5 October, Australia marks the occasion on 31 October, when students and teachers return from holidays.

Mr Martin encouraged the community to reflect on the impact of teachers over the coming weeks and to share their stories.

“I encourage young people, their families and the whole community to take a moment to recognise a teacher who has made a difference in your life, before our celebrations on 31 October.

“Every message on the Teaching Gems map shines a light on the extraordinary role teachers play in shaping our future,” Mr Martin said.

The NSW community can join the celebration by adding their teaching gems to NESA's map.