The Teaching Awards Trust was established in 1998 by David, Lord Puttnam CBE, as a means of recognising and celebrating excellence in education.

We’ve all had a great teacher. They show a real interest in who we are, listen to our thoughts, inspire us to learn and encourage us to achieve our best, no matter what our goals are. The influence of a good teacher lasts a lifetime.

The charity’s mission is to raise the profile of the teaching profession, highlight the positive impact teachers and school leaders have in our society – with pupils, parents and the wider community, and show teachers how much they are valued. We do this through the annual Pearson National Teaching Awards and the Thank a Teacher Campaign.

Important Dates

We’ll be announcing the Gold Winners of the 2023 Pearson National Teaching Awards in November. You can also register your interest for the 2024 Awards here.

Judging

In March and April, our team of expert category judges sort through the entries, select, and visit finalists in order to select their Silver Pearson National Teaching Award winners.

Meet the Judges

Thank a Teacher Day

On Thank a Teacher Day, we announced the names of Silver Pearson National Teaching Award Winners. Schools and colleges around the UK arranged presentations and celebrations to celebrate their wins and families and colleagues took the time to thank their own teachers.

Find out more about Thank a Teacher Day

Thank a Teacher

Anyone can send a thank you and we accept these all year round.  We will then send the teacher, teaching assistant, headteacher or team a thank you card on your behalf – for free! Each “thank you” message can be a nomination for the Pearson National Teaching Awards.

UK Ceremony

Our incredible Gold Award winners are celebrated at the annual Pearson National Teaching Awards UK ceremony. The ceremony is held to highlight the impact of education and to honour inspirational teachers and support staff selected from thousands of nominations.