An acclaimed educator known for pioneering bilingual and "Both Ways" learning in the Northern Territory is being farewelled, as colleagues honour her retirement from Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education.

Dr Ailsa Purdon is retiring after many years with the Aboriginal-controlled Batchelor Institute, about 100 kilometres south of Darwin. The institute delivers higher education and training focused on Indigenous knowledge systems, languages, and community-based learning.

This week, the institute honoured Dr Purdon's profound effect on Indigenous education both within the Northern Territory and beyond.

"A warm farewell to a respected champion of bilingual and Both Ways education," the institute said.

Dr Purdon has helped shape the curriculum and its delivery at the Batchelor Institute, while supporting the development of Indigenous teachers.

"She has supported many students, colleagues and communities across the Northern Territory," the Bachelor Institute said.

Her career has spanned remote classrooms as a teacher, teacher-linguist, and school principal, as well as international work in Tanzania, South Africa, Cambodia, Southern Sudan, and Wales.

The institute said her work reinforced Indigenous knowledge and pedagogy at the heart of its programs, with a permanent impact on students.

"You have helped generations of Indigenous educators and learners walk proudly in both worlds."

Dr Purdon's retirement marks the end of a career defined by advancing bilingual and bicultural education, and her contributions are set to shape learning across communities for years to come.

"We wish you a happy and fulfilling retirement," the institute said.

"You will be missed, but your impact will continue to inspire us."