A local secondary school and kohanga are among the 14 finalists for the prestigious 2017 Prime Minister's Education Excellence Awards.
John Paul College is a finalist in the Excellence in Engaging category and Te Kohanga Reo ki Rotokawa is a finalist in the Excelling in Leading category.
"I want to congratulate all the finalists on getting this far," Education Minister Nikki Kaye said.
"It's a huge achievement meaning they have demonstrated excellence in education to the panel of education experts."
This year's finalists include a broad range of educators from early learning services, a kohanga reo, primary, intermediate, and secondary schools from right across the country.
"I was particularly pleased to see that four finalists are part of Communities of Learning in their region. Belonging to such a community fosters these schools' ability to share their good practice," Ms Kaye said.
"Each of the finalists has shown innovative and effective teaching practice. They demonstrate how important it is to work with students and the wider community to ensure every child succeeds, and for teachers to work together and base their decisions on evidence.
"Every finalist and their community should take pride in what they're doing and know that they are great examples of innovation and excellence to others throughout New Zealand and internationally," she said.
"It's really important that we take time to recognise and celebrate the very best in education, and learn from the innovation taking place at every level right across the country."
A judging panel made up of a range of outstanding New Zealanders will visit finalists during May and June to see them in action.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony celebrating the best in education on June 27. Winners will receive a financial award and a professional development opportunity.
Finalists:
Excellence in Engaging
Horowhenua College, Levin
John Paul College, Rotorua
Manurewa Intermediate, South Auckland
Papamoa Kindergarten, Bay of Plenty
Excellence in Leading
Manurewa Intermediate, South Auckland
Te Kohanga Reo ki Rotokawa, Rotorua
Waitakere College, West Auckland
William Colenso College, Napier
Excellence in Teaching & Learning
Halswell School, Christchurch
Invercargill Middle School, Invercargill
Waitakere College, West Auckland
William Colenso College, Napier
Excellence in Governing
Auckland Kindergarten Association
William Colenso College, Napier
