iStore Education has officially opened entries for its 2026 Excellence in Education Awards, celebrating South African teachers and students who use Apple technology in creative and meaningful ways to enhance learning.
Now in its 18th year, the awards are open to:
- Primary school learners: Grades R–7
- High school learners: Grades 8–12
- Teachers and educators
This year’s challenge
Entrants are asked to answer one question:
“How have you used Mac or iPad to bring learning to life?”
What can you win?
Winning teachers and students will receive Apple devices:
- Primary school category: The latest iPad
- High school category: The new MacBook Neo
How entries will be judged
Projects will be assessed in three categories:
- Creative Excellence – Using Apple technology in original and engaging ways.
- Curriculum Excellence – Showing how Mac or iPad improves everyday teaching and learning.
- Tech Excellence – Using coding, artificial intelligence (AI), or other digital tools to develop technology skills.
Michelle Lissoos, Director at iStore Education, says the awards are about recognizing people who use technology with creativity and purpose, not simply using Apple devices.
“Technology has the greatest impact when it is used with imagination, purpose and a clear educational goal. Every year we’re inspired by teachers and students who show what’s possible when creativity, critical thinking and collaboration come together in the classroom.”
What can you submit?
Projects can include:
- AI-powered projects
- Coding projects
- Digital storytelling
- Curriculum-based classroom work
You can enter:
- Individually, or
- As a team of one teacher and up to two students
Submission requirements
Entries must be submitted as either:
- An MP4 or MP3 presentation (maximum 3 minutes), or
- A digital eBook (maximum 10 pages).
Each submission must also include:
- Evidence of Mac or iPad being used
- High-quality images or video
- Student and teacher credits
- A list of apps and sources used
Important deadline
- Entries close: 2 October 2026
For more info, visit [education.istore.co.za/excellence-in-education]