Published 27 Oct 2026
World Teachers’ Day 2026: Shine a light on teachers
World Teachers' Day is an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary effort, dedication and expertise that teachers bring to their work every day.
On Friday 30 October 2026, schools and communities across Australia will come together to Shine a light on teachers who inspire, support and empower children and young people every single day.
From creating those important 'lightbulb moments' when learning suddenly clicks, to helping a young person discover what they are good at, what they care about and where they might want to go next, teachers make a difference in ways both big and small.
Their professionalism, care and commitment shape the futures of learners and strengthen communities across Victoria.
World Teachers’ Day tribute
We recognise the high quality of Victorian teachers and educational leaders and the significant contributions they make in classrooms, early childhood settings and communities across the state.
VIT Chairperson, Dale Pearce, pays tribute to Victorian teachers.
On World Teachers’ Day, I extend my sincere thanks to teachers across Victoria for the important work you do every day to support, inspire and empower your students.
Teaching is a profession that makes a profound difference — not only through the knowledge and skills you share, but through the relationships you build, the confidence you nurture and the opportunities you create for young people to thrive.
I recognise the dedication, care and professionalism you bring to your classrooms, often in the face of significant challenges and competing demands. Your work matters enormously, and its impact reaches far beyond the classroom, shaping individuals, strengthening communities and contributing to Victoria’s future.
On behalf of the Victorian Institute of Teaching, thank you for your commitment to your students, your profession and the value of education.
Today, we celebrate you and the difference you make.
Dale Pearce – VIT Chairperson
Shining a light on Victorian teachers
This World Teachers' Day, we’re proud to showcase the voices and experiences of teachers across Victoria.
Featuring reflections from teachers in the Wimmera region and participants in the Effective Mentoring Program, these stories highlight the impact of quality teaching, professional support and mentoring on learners, colleagues and school communities.
Together, they offer a snapshot of the commitment, expertise and connection that underpin the teaching profession – and some of the best things about being a teacher today.
World Teachers' Day resources
The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) has developed a range of resources to help schools, early childhood services and communities celebrate World Teachers’ Day.
AITSL’s Celebration Kit includes
- email signatures
- classroom activities
- logos and graphics
- virtual meeting background
- newsletter and website content
- posters
- printable props for taking photos
- social media assets
- digital stickers.
The resources can be adapted to support local celebrations and recognition activities.
Get involved
World Teachers' Day is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contribution teachers make to education and the broader community.
You can join the national celebrations by:
- sharing a message of appreciation for a teacher or colleague
- showcasing your school's World Teachers' Day activities
- posting a photo or story using #WorldTeachersDay2026
- tagging @aitsl to have your contribution featured on the World Teachers' Day media wall.
Download AITSL's Celebration Kit and have a look at the media wall to access resources, view messages from across Australia and be part of this year's celebrations.