About the Creative Teacher Award
The Creative Teacher Award (CTA) is a global competition that welcomes participation from all teachers, school administrators and university instructors across the world. This competition is hosted by TEFL Wonderland-
Brilliant Minds in partnership with Gatehouse
Awards (U.K) and Certvera (USA). The primary goal of CTA is to acknowledge and applaud instructional and educational management excellence while inspiring and encouraging the adoption of new, inventive approaches and best practices in education.
Award Focus, Eligibility and Criteria
- All teachers, trainers, instructors, department heads and stage principals worldwide, regardless of their employment status (full-time or part-time) or subject specialization can apply for the Creative Teacher Award (CTA).
- Applications can be submitted in English, Arabic, French and Spanish.
The competition focuses on creative innovations in the following domains:
- Using educational technology
- Promoting environmental awareness and global citizenship
- Providing equal access to teaching materials, activities and assessments
- Promoting autonomous and collaborative learning
- Innovation and Creativity: Ability to implement innovative and creative practices in teaching, learning, or organizational management.
- Achievement of Goals: Ability to set and achieve clear, measurable goals related to student learning or institutional effectiveness.
- Effective Use of Resources: Ability to strategically utilize available resources, including teaching materials, technology, and institutional support, to enhance educational outcomes.
- Impact on the Learning Environment: Ability to drive tangible academic progress and skill mastery through innovative and creative practices.
Awards for Winners and their Schools
In addition to the awards that the CTA winners will receive, all teachers in the winners' schools will be eligible for a 15% discount on all TEFL Wonderland courses.
& A CASH Award
Incentives for All CTA Applicants
(Worth 400$)
CTA Application and Selection Process
- The name, department, school and
position of the applicant - Information about the course/project
objectives and structure - A concise (approximately 300-400
words) description of the creative
teaching strategy or innovation (e.g.,
aim, materials, duration, procedures,
etc.) - A video recording showing the
implementation of this creative
strategy or innovation - Evidence of its impact on improving
student learning and performance
(e.g., surveys, testimonials, progress
reports, etc.)
- Applications will undergo a
meticulous screening process to
ensure that all necessary requirements
have been duly submitted. - Once applications are deemed
complete, they will be subjected to a
double-blind review conducted by two
members of the Award Selection
Committee. - The assessment of applications will be
based on a standardized rubric,
resulting in the assignment of an
average score to each applicant. - Assessors will also provide feedback
on the applications, and this
feedback will be consolidated into a
personalized feedback report for
each applicant. - Following this evaluation, applicants
will be ranked both on a national and
international scale. - Upon the applicant’s request, reports
can be shared with the applicant’s
school.
How to Submit Your Application
Step 1: Pay the Application Fee
Begin by paying the application fee, which grants you immediate access to the application forms as well as two complimentary courses designed to elevate your teaching skills.
Step 2: Review Application Guidelines
Before starting your application, make sure to thoroughly read the guidelines. Prepare all the necessary materials, including information, videos, and documents.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Fill out all required fields in the application form. Double-check to ensure all information is accurate and complete.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Materials
You may upload videos or audio clips to support your application. Use cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox, and include the shareable link in your application.
September 1, 2025
Applications for the Creative Teacher Award open. Upon applying, teachers gain immediate access to two free professional development courses.
June 1, 2026
The final date for submitting your CTA applications.Â
July 2026
Winners of the Creative Teacher Award will be announced. Personalized reports, including international rankings, will be sent to all applicants.
September-October 2026
The Creative Teacher Award winners will attend the Grand Awards Ceremony in Romania, Indonesia or Egypt to receive their awards.
Creative Teacher Award Winners-2025
Thanks to the exceptional innovation and creativity displayed in their teaching practices, these educators have left an indelible mark on their students' learning journeys. Their dedication and commitment to fostering a dynamic and engaging classroom environment have not only inspired their students but also contributed to their long-term success. Through their innovative approaches, these educators have set a benchmark for excellence in teaching and have become role models for educators everywhere. Their impact goes beyond the classroom, shaping the minds and futures of the next generation.
CTA Top 10 Ranks-2024
Creative Teacher Award Winners-2023
First Winner's Innovative Strategies
The video highlights the incredible work of Ms. Wafaa Kaouk from Amjad High School in Lebanon, showcasing her implementation of the Concrete Manipulative Approach in her chemistry classes for grade-12 students. Through engaging and interactive activities, Ms. Kaouk successfully raised environmental awareness, celebrated international events, and enhanced students' understanding of complex concepts.
Hear it Straight from our CTA Applicants
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creative Teacher Award (CTA)?
The Creative Teacher Award (CTA) is a global competition recognizing educators who implement innovative teaching strategies and educational management practices. It aims to promote excellence in educational technology, global citizenship, assessment, and accessibility while fostering autonomous and collaborative learning.
Who can apply for the CTA?
The competition is open to all teachers, school administrators, university instructors, department heads, and academic coordinators worldwide, regardless of employment status (full-time or part-time) or subject specialization.
What are the categories of the CTA?
The CTA focuses on four key areas:
- Educational Technology – Using digital tools and AI to enhance learning.
- Equal Access – Creating an inclusive learning environment for all students.
- Environmental Awareness & Global Citizenship – Encouraging sustainability and global responsibility.
- Autonomous & Collaborative Learning – Promoting teamwork and self-directed learning.
What is the application process?
Applicants must submit:
- Their name, department, institution, and position.
- Details about the course, program, or initiative they are involved in.
- A concise description (300-400 words) of their innovative strategy or practice.
- A video recording demonstrating the implementation of their innovation.
- Evidence of impact (e.g., surveys, testimonials, performance reports).
What is the CTA timeline?
- September 1, 2025 – Application opens; applicants receive access to two free professional development (PD) courses.
- June 1, 2026 – Deadline for submitting applications.
- July 2026 – Announcement of winners and personalized reports for all applicants.
- September-October 2026 – CTA winners receive awards at an international ceremony in Romania, Indonesia or Egypt.
How are applications assessed?
Applications go through a double-blind review process by two independent reviewers using a standardized rubric. The evaluation is based on:
- Innovation & Creativity
- Achievement of Goals
- Impact on the Learning Environment
- Effective Use of Resources All applicants receive a personalized feedback report, and rankings are provided at both the national and international levels.
What are the benefits for CTA applicants?
All participants receive:
- Two online courses (valued at $400).
- Certificates for course completion and CTA participation.
- A personalized report with an action plan for future improvement.
- International and national ranking.
Do I get access to professional development courses when I apply?
Yes! Once you enroll in CTA, you will receive instant access to two professional development (PD) courses. You will have four months to complete these courses. These courses are designed for your own professional development and are not related to the competition assessment.
What are the awards for CTA winners?
- A fully funded 4-day trip to Egypt, including full-board accommodation at a luxurious Red Sea resort, to attend the Global Awards Ceremony.Â
- Cash prizes:
- $300 for 1st place
- $200 for 2nd place
- $100 for 3rd place
- For winners who cannot travel, cash prizes will be:
- $700 for 1st place
- $500 for 2nd place
- $300 for 3rd place
- The top 10 international participants receive a 10% discount for the Wonderland STEM & Leadership Camp in Niagara, Canada.
- CTA winners will be featured on the "Wall of Fame" on TEFL Wonderland websites.
- All teachers in the winners’ schools will be eligible for a 15% discount on all TEFL Wonderland courses.
Are flights covered for CTA winners?
No, flights are not included in the award package. Winners who attend the Global Awards Ceremony in Egypt will receive full-board accommodation, but they are responsible for arranging and covering their own travel expenses.
In which languages can I apply?
Applications can be submitted in English, Arabic, French, or Spanish.
