Eight English teachers were recognized for their dedication and innovative approaches at the Inspiring Teacher of English Award ceremony held on September 29, 2026. The annual event, supported by the Speak Good English Movement, The Straits Times, and the Ministry of Education, honors educators who foster a passion for English language and literature among their students.
This year’s recipients were selected from 107 nominations and include five teachers awarded in the Teaching category and three recipients honored for leadership in their schools. The awards acknowledge those who demonstrate excellence in spoken and written English instruction, as well as those who guide their departments toward a shared educational vision.
Among the honorees is Wong Sui Lee, head of the General Paper (GP) department at St Andrew’s Junior College. Wong employs creative methods such as encouraging students to transform current news stories into quizzes for their peers, promoting engagement and a deeper understanding of global affairs. “We aim to cultivate curiosity and help students find their own voices,” Wong said.
Sasha Kaur Dhillon, deputy dean at Temasek Junior College, incorporates experiential learning through initiatives like Singapore A-Z. This project involves students researching Singapore-related topics, interviewing individuals, and presenting their findings to classmates. Dhillon noted that this hands-on approach makes discussions more relevant and meaningful for students.
Longtime educator Rafidah Ridzuan of Tampines North Primary School emphasized the importance of connecting with students on a personal level. With 28 years of teaching experience, she values creating a supportive environment where pupils feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, often engaging with them during recess.
Another recipient, Zheng Kankan, subject head of English literature at Maris Stella High School, shared a rewarding moment when a student expressed gratitude after being encouraged to participate in a poetry recitation competition. Although the student did not advance to the finals, Zheng noted the growth in his appreciation for poetry and his eagerness to compete again.
Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Education and National Development Sved Nurun Alhabsyi, guest of honor at the event, highlighted the importance of nurturing clear self-expression and empathetic listening amid the rapid exchange of information in today’s world. “These abilities must be deliberately cultivated through the good work of our teachers,” he stated.
Jason Leow, chairman of the Speak Good English Movement, praised the recipients, emphasizing their role in shaping not just exam outcomes but how students think, communicate, and connect globally.
The Teaching Award recipients this year include Benson Pang (Jurong West Primary School), Rafidah Ridzuan (Tampines North Primary School), Millie Chiu Yee Qian (Crescent Girls’ School), Justina Foo Khim Youn (St Anthony’s Canossian Secondary School), and Sasha Kaur Dhillon (Temasek Junior College). The Leadership Award honored Amanda Lin Weijia (Kranji Primary School), Zheng Kankan (Maris Stella High School), and Wong Sui Lee (St Andrew’s Junior College).
Since its inception in 2008, the Inspiring Teacher of English Award has recognized 159 educators for their contributions to English language education in Singapore.