Do you know an educator that goes above and beyond to creatively introduce entomology to children and young people?
The Schools and Young People Teaching award celebrates educators working with school-age learners who have demonstrated excellence in teaching about insects. This award recognises innovative teaching practices that inspire curiosity, nurture an interest in the natural world, and introduce children and young people to the vital role insects play in nature and our lives.
The Royal Entomological Society has a commitment to promoting education and outreach, this award recognises educators from around the world who help to cultivate the next generation of entomologists and nature enthusiasts. This award is open to educators working in school settings, field centres, and other institutions that educate children and young people.
Schools and Young People Teaching Award at a Glance
| Prize | £400, certificate, membership of RES for one year |
| Purpose | Recognise outstanding achievement in teaching insect science to young people (5-18 years old). |
| Eligibility | Educators working with learners in school settings, field centres, and other institutions around the world that educate children and young people |
| Deadline | 31 December 2026 |
| Decision body | RES Education Committee |
Application Guidance
Please read the information below carefully before applying for this award, paying particular attention to the assessment criteria.
Objectives
The award aims to:
- Recognise educators who introduce entomology to children and young people through innovative and engaging methods.
- Highlight teaching practices that create lasting interest in insects and their role in ecosystems.
- Support educators who demonstrate a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in their classrooms and educational settings.
- Celebrate those who collaborate with organisations, local communities, or external partners to enhance the educational experience.
Eligibility
This award is open to:
- Primary and secondary school teachers
- Educators at other organisations that educate children and young people.
Nominees must have demonstrable impact in teaching entomology, insect biology, or related environmental topics to children and young people.
Nominees may be based anywhere in the world.
RES membership is not required.
Self-nominations and third-party nominations are accepted.
Assessment Criteria
Strong nominations will demonstrate:
- Innovation in Teaching: How creatively has the nominee introduced insect science to children and young people? Have they developed new materials, curricula, or hands-on activities?
- Impact on Learners: How has the nominee’s work fostered interest in insects and entomology? Are there tangible examples of student engagement or success?
- Collaboration & Outreach: Has the nominee worked with external organisations, communities, or local resources to support their teaching?
- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Does the nominee demonstrate a commitment to making entomology accessible and engaging for a diverse range of learners?
Nominees should show evidence of creative approaches to teaching insect science.
How to Nominate
To nominate yourself or a third party, fill in the application form.
Nominations must include:
- A completed nomination form
- A nominator statement (maximum 300 words)
Optional supporting material:
- Website and social media links
- Teaching resources and examples
Key Dates
Applications open: June 2026
Application deadline: 31 December 2026
Assessment Process
Nominations are assessed by the RES Education Committee.
Decisions are based on published criteria and collective review.
All decisions are final.
Prize and Recognition
The winner receives:
- RES Membership for one year
- Recipients are recognised through RES communications and at an RES event.
Related Awards and Grants
Educators working in higher education should apply for the Higher Education Teaching Award.
Successful Recipients
2025 Winner
Dr David Fitter, Headteacher, St Bartholomew’s School
Related Award – Higher Education
Know an educator in Higher Education that has demonstrated outstanding achievement in teaching entomology?
Visit our Higher Education Teaching Award instead.
Have you received a RES Award or Grant?
