Monique Basson of Forest Village Leadership Academy received the Excellence in Teaching Life Skills award for Grades 1–6, reflecting her dedicated approach to foundational learning in Eerste River’s Metro East community. Athina Dennis from Oval North High School was named the National Best Teacher for 2026, the highest individual honour among Western Cape educators, embodying the spirit of commitment to learners’ futures.
Danielle Bosch of Koos Sadie Primary School was honoured for Excellence in Grade R Teaching, spotlighting excellence in early childhood education within Goodwood’s Metro North district. Brenda Simani-Phike from Masiphumelele Primary School received Excellence in Primary School Leadership, recognizing her transformative leadership in Khayelitsha’s Metro East educational environment.
Ambrosia Pheiffer of Fraaisig Primary School was awarded Excellence in Primary School Teaching for Grades 1–7, demonstrating sustained excellence in Knysna’s Eden and Central Karoo region. Antonio Michaels of Blackheath High School received Excellence in Secondary School Leadership, representing Metro East’s commitment to strong secondary education leadership.
Gameeda Abrahams of Blomvlei Primary School was awarded the Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award, acknowledging decades of unwavering service to learners in Hanover Park’s Metro Central community. All honourees will now represent the Western Cape as nominees for the National Teaching Awards, with recognition extending to mathematics, sciences, technology, and inclusive education across all levels.