World Teachers’ Day

Friday 26 October 2012

Celebrated in over 100 countries, World Teachers' Day acknowledges the efforts of teachers in an increasingly complex, multicultural and technological society. It is a day on which students, parents and community members can demonstrate their appreciation for the contributions that teachers have made to their community.

 What is World Teachers’ Day?

World Teachers’ Day was inaugurated on 5th October 1994 by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to commemorate the 1966 joint signing of the UNESCO/ILO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers. In adopting this recommendation, governments unanimously recognised the importance of competent, qualified and motivated teachers in society.

Internationally World Teachers’ Day is celebrated on the first Friday in October. However as this is usually during Australian school holidays, Australia celebrates the day on the last Friday in October of each year.

Some suggestions for celebrating World Teachers’ Day include:

• Provide a morning tea, lunch or after work BBQ for teachers
• Organise a concert of student performances as a tribute to their teachers
• Present each teacher with a small token of appreciation, such as a certificate
• Collate a collection of teacher appreciation messages, poems and drawings from students
• Organise a World Teachers' Day poster or postcard design competition for students
• Distribute World Teachers' Day badges and stickers