The Northern Territory Government has announced the winners for the 20th Northern Territory World Teachers’ Day Awards, celebrating the important work the Territory’s teachers do.
The 2025 awards highlight the best of the Territory, from early childhood educators, support staff and teachers, to Principals.
Darwin’s Leanyer Primary School Principal, Leah Crockford was named the Territory’s Principal of the Year.
Awards judges stated: “Leah is an accomplished Northern Territory principal whose career exemplifies excellence, innovation, and deep commitment to student achievement. Since 2011, she has led Berry Springs Primary School and Leanyer School, transforming their school cultures through evidence-based pedagogy and collaborative co-teaching models. Her strategic vision has driven sustained student achievement, with Leanyer Primary School’s 2025 NAPLAN results exceeding national standards in Reading, Writing, and Numeracy. The school’s excellence was recognised in their 2024 School Review.”
They said Principal Crockford’s influence extends beyond the school gates through her involvement in the NTPA Executive, the Independent Public Schools network and as a member of Education and Training Executive Board. She mentors and supports leaders in other schools, in urban, rural, and remote settings, fostering systemic improvement.
Her contributions have earned national recognition, including the Global Teacher Awards, the Chief Minister’s Public Sector Excellence Award, and a CBA Teaching Fellowship, and with her school featured on the front page of the Australian as the Territory’s top school for NAPLAN growth.
“Leah continues to inspire excellence and equity in education across the Territory,” the Judges said.
Anica Beckett, the winner of the ‘Leader in Education’ award from Kintore Street School in Katherine was celebrated for the work she does supporting staff to grow professionally, encourage reflective practice, and fostering a culture of care, consistency, and high expectations.
The school-based support person of the year, Mary Noonan (pictured, below) from Rockhampton Downs School, started at the school as a cleaner and assistant teacher in 2004.
Judges said Ms Noonan has been a passionate and dedicated Assistant Teacher at Rockhampton Downs School for over 20 years, supporting students’ learning and engagement.
“She is a firm believer that education is the key to success – opening doors to personal growth, achievement, and future opportunities,” they said.
Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey hosted the awards at Parliament House, while celebrations were also held in Katherine, Tennant Creek, Alice Springs and Nhulunbuy.
“To all of the teachers throughout the Territory, I thank you for your hard work and dedication in shaping the minds of our students,” she said.
“Your dedication to our student’s future is crucial as we rollout explicit teaching and the boosting literacy and numeracy plan in 2026.”
The full list of winners and nominations can be found here.
