Judges

The Award for Making a Difference in a Primary School Judge

Aaron, CEO of The Inspire Multi Academy Trust (South West) and Executive Headteacher of Ernesettle Community School and Tor Bridge Primary School, was originally appointed when Ernesettle Community School was deemed to be requiring special measures in May 2010. Within 18 months, the school was graded as ‘Good with Outstanding features’ by Ofsted and in 2019, graded as ‘Outstanding’. In April 2013, Aaron was seconded to part time for two years to open Devon’s first primary free school, Marine Academy Primary; the academy became the south west’s first ‘Outstanding’ free school in June 2015. Aaron was designated as a National Leader in Education (NLE) in 2018 and when his trust sponsored Tor Bridge Primary School in 2021, it consequently became one of only three schools in the South West region to ever achieve moving from Special Measures to Outstanding in its next inspection. In 2025, Ernesettle Community School was judged to be maintaining its Outstanding grading.
Outside of work, Aaron’s two real passions in life are spending quality time with his wife Siobhan, their dog (Watson) and cat (Sherlock) and travelling as much as the school holidays allow.

https://schoolsweek.co.uk/the-plymouth-playbook-piloting-people-through-improvement/https://issuu.com/ecspl5/docs/schools_week_february_2024

Judge for Further Education Lecturer of the Year 

Alexis has worked in education for over 15 years, with experience supporting learners with Additional Learning Needs (ALN) and Special Educational Needs (SEN), as well as teaching nearly all areas of Design and Technology within secondary education. For the past five years, she has been working in Further Education, specialising in Motorsports, Aerospace, and Composite Engineering. A passionate advocate for women, Alexis is an active member of the ED&I group and the Women’s Affinity Network, where she champions initiatives aimed at empowering under-represented groups. As a STEM Ambassador for CREATE Education, she is committed to making STEM classrooms and industries more inclusive for girls. Alexis has also led the HiVE outreach programme, successfully implementing additive manufacturing across all primary schools in Blaenau Gwent. Her dedication and impact have been widely recognised, receiving the Pearson Gold FE Lecturer of the Year award, was highly commended for the Wales STEM Team of the Year, and was a finalist for Wales STEM Woman of the Year.

The Award for Lifetime Achievement Judge

Angela Williams is a recently retired Principal from an outstanding Sixth Form College in Huddersfield. With over 37 years in education, with 15 years leading this Sixth Form College, she was awarded an OBE for Services to Education in June 2018. In her retirement year (2022), she was the proud winner of the Gold Award for Lifetime Achievement.
Education was the route out of a lifetime of poverty for Angela, and provided her with professional opportunities for the future. Her time in education has been dedicated to ensuring that other young people living in poverty have these same opportunities by ensuring that they receive a high-quality education. Equality of Opportunity for ALL young people has been the driving force of Angela’s career.
Angela enjoys walking, running, going to the theatre and cinema, and reading.

The Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Secondary School Judge

Anne has returned to judge after a first period of judging in the South West many years ago.

Anne’s career began in Wiltshire in a village school in Worton and Marston. She went on to become the youngest Headteacher at the time. She continued in Headteacher role across other schools for 25 years, and won her Teaching Award in 2012. Anne is passionate about the Arts in education and was awarded a Bath Spa University Doctorate for Services to Primary Education, the Arts in Education and actively promoting and developing leadership in primary education. Additionally, Anne was  awarded an OBE for Services to Education.

Now retired from full time Headship Anne works as the Primary Advisor for a Cornwall MAT and is consulting as a NLE.

The Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School Judge

Anne Paterson retired from her role of Chief Education Officer in Argyll and Bute, Scotland in December 2020 after spending 40 years in the authority. She was an advisor to Scottish Government in relation to Early Learning and Care policy development. Anne is a lifelong learner and has recently submitted her thesis with a focus on rural education for the award of Doctor of Education. She lecturers in Head Teacher leadership with the University of the Highlands and Islands. Anne was presented with an OBE for services to education by HRH the Princess Royal in January 2022.

Read Anne’s research artcile on Rural education here

Published research: A professional journey: capturing the complicated relationship between rural teacher agency, multigrade classes and local communities

The Award for School/College Partnership of the Year Judge

Ava currently works as an independent School Improvement Advisor and was a Headteacher for 22 years before she took semi-retirement in December 2017.
During her years as Headteacher, she led her main school from Special Measures to Ofsted Outstanding and for her last 4 years of Headship was executive Headteacher, while continuing to be the substantive Headteacher of the school she was Headteacher of for 22 years. She took on the Headship of a local school in Special Measures which rapidly became judged as a good school by Ofsted.
Ava was a National Leader of Education until her semi-retirement. During this 10-year period she supported many schools in challenging circumstances.
Ava was part of the DFE working party who wrote the Teachers ‘Standards and has been a judge for the National Teaching Awards for the last 13 years.

The Award for Digital Innovator of the Year Judge 

Bob has been in teaching for 30 years and recently retired after 20 years of headship. He says: ‘I  thoroughly enjoyed my time and now stay in contact with schools through my new role of consultant’. Before ‘ED’ I was in the RAF finishing my career on 50 Squadron-Vulcan bombers
I am married to Gill, have three children, two dogs and live in the lovely village of Hythe, Kent. I love walking, travel, cycling and swimming and cannot resist visits to art galleries (I even ran one for a short period). I also enjoy cooking and even catered for two different weddings.

Author of – EduCaveman: An indispensable Guide to Transforming School Culture
Co-host of podcast @Teacher standard 9 having fun – Link here

The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School – North Team Judge

Catherine won the Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School in 2013. She has been the head of St Philip Evans in Llanederyn, Cardiff, for 15 years. Her passion for her work and care for the staff and pupils of the school ensure that the school community always works towards continuous improvement, enabling future generations to have the best start possible in education.

The Award for FE Team of the Year Judge

Claire has 18 years experience of working in FE. She started out as a lecturer in Sports Science and Sports Therapy and quickly developed a reputation for delivering high quality teaching and learning, co-ordinating courses with consistently high levels of retention, achievement and student satisfaction.
In 2016, Claire moved out of the classroom to become a Learning and Skills Manager for Service Industries at North Warwickshire & South Leicestershire College, looking after the curriculums in Hairdressing, Barbering, Beauty Therapies, Complementary Therapies, Make Up Artistry, Hospitality and Catering.
Claire has personal experience of being on the receiving end of the judging process, having twice been awarded a Silver Pearson National Teaching Award for FE Team of the Year; with her Hospitality and Catering Team in 2019 and with her Beauty Therapy and Make Up Artistry Team in 2021.
Recently, Claire has returned to the classroom having missed the enjoyment of teaching, this time choosing to work with Post-16 students who have special educational needs and disabilities, where she is the Post-16 Lead in a SEN School in Warwickshire.

The Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Secondary School Judge

Darren Mornin is currently Principal of Limavady High School and is a Director for the Controlled Schools’ Support Council in Northern Ireland. Darren is a member of various educational stakeholder groups, including the Department of Education Restart Group, EA Strategic Leadership Forum, EA EDiS Programme and EA Principals Forum. Darren was awarded an Honorary Doctorate for services to Education by Queen’s University, Belfast in 2023. Limavady High School was the 2022 winner of the Pearson National Teaching Awards -Secondary School of the year – Making a Difference.

Outside of work Darren enjoys spending time with his family and playing golf.

Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School Judge

Dawn Ferdinand is in her 25th year of headship and is currently the Co-Headteacher of The Willow Primary School and Broadwaters’ Children’s Centre. Her school sits on an inclusive learning campus, shared with The Brook Special School, on the Broadwater Farm Estate in Tottenham. She took on leadership of The Willow in 2008 when it was rated ‘Satisfactory’ by Ofsted. Under her leadership, the school achieved ‘Outstanding’ in both 2017 and 2023. Dawn has also been an Executive Headteacher and a founding member several organisations, including Nia, BEN (Black Educators’ Network (both Islington and Haringey). She is the founder and Programme Director for Roots to Excellence (at LAET). She is committed to school improvement, working as a consultant with Haringey Education Partnership, and runs her own company, Ferdinand Leadership Education Excellence (FLE-x). Dawn is Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School 2024. A strong advocate for inclusion, Dawn is passionate about improving outcomes for vulnerable children and ensuring that all pupils receive the opportunities they deserve.

The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School Judge

Edward is a passionate educator and currently holds the position as Executive Director of Education at the Hope Sentamu Learning Trust, a Trust made up of 14 schools across Primary, Secondary and Alternative Provision settings. Edward won Outstanding New Teacher of the Year in 2009 at the National Awards. He has held many positions in teaching and leadership, he has a passion to ensure that lives are charged through education. He has held leadership positions in challenging settings and worked with and in a range of settings. Edward is passionate about diversity and inclusion.

Farhan has been a headteacher for 10 years across three different schools. He was previously an AST in PE across Leicester and Leicestershire and has supported a number of colleagues into leadership under different DFE programmes.

Farhan was a Gold winner for the Headteacher of the Year award in 2023.

He is currently Principal of Crown Hills Community College in Leicester.

His school was also a silver winner in 2023.

Listen here to Farhan speaking about why a ‘Well Culture’ within school is critical to ensuring staff and pupils experience an education journey that equips and prepares them for learning and life.

The Award for Unsung Hero Judge

Ges’s initial teaching work was in drama, and he moved into working in a SEMH Special School setting in the late 1980s. In the early 1990s, he took up the role of SENCO/Senior Teacher at Robert Clack School in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. In 2002, Ges was appointed Deputy Head at the Jo Richardson School in the same borough. Working with Andy Buck and the senior team, they built the school from scratch until it achieved both a local and national reputation for high standards, inclusion, and positive outcomes. Ges was appointed Head of School in 2007 and finally Headteacher in 2009.

Towards the end of his 14 years of headship, at the request of the LA, Ges took up an Executive Headship to support another borough school, Dagenham Park. He retired aged 61 in the summer of 2021 and has since undertaken educational consultancy work in Hertfordshire and Barking and Dagenham on a part-time basis.

Outside of work, Ges and his wife enjoy traveling, and he plays a distinctly average round of golf on a weekly basis.

The Award for Lifetime Achievement Judge

Hardial Hayer took early retirement from Headship at the end of August 2019 having successfully served as Headteacher for 24 years in two large secondary schools. He was awarded the Gold Plato as Britain’s Pearson Secondary Headteacher of the Year in 2016. In his 40 years in education Hardial has been devoted to raising standards and changing lives of all pupils, particularly those from challenging backgrounds. During his last Headship he helped build a brand-new school and led a total transformation of the school which was recognised by Ofsted as outstanding in all categories.
Over the years Hardial has worked with the DfE and the National College by using ICT and support staff to free teachers to teach, for example, cover supervisors and non-teaching Heads of Year (which are now the norm in most secondary schools) were first created at the school he led. Since taking early retirement Hardial has continued to support schools and leaders through coaching, mentoring and is heavily involved in delivering the NPQs (National Professional Qualifications).
Hardial and his wife Bhupinder have three grown up children and they love travelling. Hardial loves cricket and on Saturday afternoons he can be seen cheering on his beloved Huddersfield Town.

The Award for Outstanding New Teacher of the Year Judge

Helen has been the Headteacher of Allerton CE Primary school in Leeds since 2007 and has thoughtfully and creatively transformed the school from 200 children to just over 700. Her vision for Allerton CE Primary has made it the school it is today: flourishing, dynamic and striving for the very best. It is a truly special place to be. See more of this here www.allertonceprimary.com

Helen was delighted to receive the Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School in November 2022. Being part of the Teaching Awards community has given further opportunity for partnership both locally and nationally, including 2 wonderful trips to Number 10 and an upcoming international speaking engagement.

She is a strong, inspirational and open leader with the courage to take risks, always with a smile and tenacity to see projects through to fruition. Helen works with her school as part of Leeds Learning Alliance, the Diocese of Leeds, Leeds Church Institute highlighting good practice in creative pedagogies used to inform and transform the curriculum as well as many other partners. Helen loves to sing, travel, walk in the sunshine/rain and live life alongside friends and family.

http://www.policyhubscotland.co.uk – part of our trauma informed practice work
https://www.naht.org.uk/News/Latest-comments/News/ArtMID/556/ArticleID/2223/Do-it-yourself-the-reluctant-leader-who-built-and-grew-her-own-ACE-school
https://edexec.co.uk/18-years-at-the-helm-building-an-ace-community/

Jane has been teaching for 27 years, and is currently the CEO at Ascend Learning trust based in Wiltshire. Prior to this she worked in a national MAT as an Education Director. 

In this role she worked in both the Secondary and Primary phases focusing on supporting leaders to drive improvement and helping to secure effective and inspiring practice in the classroom. 

Before her MAT roles Jane was Principal at Brakenhale School in Berkshire, which was said to have been transformed under her leadership. 

During her career to date, she has also worked as an Associate Headteacher in an Outstanding school and was known for her work as a national lead for PiXL6 (Partners in Excellence), where she worked alongside over 500 schools to lead improvement for Post16 students. 

In her various leadership roles, Jane is said to have earned a reputation for working at a rapid pace to improve progress and standards in schools whilst creating positive cultures that embody a strong moral purpose, to ensure all young people thrive and where staff feel empowered to lead.

Outside of the work arena Jane is a mother to three children aged 8,12 and 17 says she is well aware of the challenges facing families and young people. She is also a keen runner, and says she very much enjoys spending time with her family and friends. 

The Award for Lifetime Achievement Judge

Starting her Primary teaching career in Hampshire, Janis Burdin returned to her home county of Lancashire where, in 1982, she opened Moss Side Primary School. Built to serve the Leyland area of Central Lancashire New Town, Janis soon established Moss Side as a highly respected, oversubscribed school where the emphasis was always to give her pupils a warm and safe environment where they could fulfil their full potential and lay down an excellent foundation for their future lives. Janis has been fundamental in the development of her own school, education in Leyland, Lancashire and even nationally. She retired after 36 years as Head, having taken her school through three Outstanding OFSTEDs and having being awarded the MBE for services to education. In 2018 she was delighted to receive the Gold Pearson Award for Lifetime Achievement. Janis now fills her time working on her smallholding and being a Pearson’s judge, whilst still continuing to be involved with her old school and pursuing her interest in education (and especially Maths.)

The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School -South Team Judge

Jashu Vekaria has been teaching for 15 years, she has supported colleagues across many schools in Harrow and built up an excellent reputation. She moved to Uxendon Manor Primary School in Brent in September 2010 and has worked at the school for six years – the first two as an Advanced Skills Teacher and from 2012 as the Deputy Headteacher. She is currently playing a leading role in delivering training as part of the schools designation by the Brent Schools Partnership as a ‘Specialist Centre for Mathematics’. She has made a tremendous impact in the schools and communities in which she has worked. Jashu is a wonderfully gifted teacher and has been an inspiration to both children and adults alike.

The Award for Teaching Assistant of the Year Judge

Jo currently teaches in a provision for vulnerable learners using a trauma-informed approach. She loves her job as it is both rewarding and varied every day, and she works with an amazing team. They are also joined by Bella, the emotionally available dog who is part of their school family.

Part of Jo’s role also involves supporting families, ensuring barriers are broken down, and working cohesively with the team around the child to benefit the child’s well-being. She enjoys removing obstacles for her students while creating a safe space where they can feel secure and make connections with themselves.

Jo also works within the local community to ensure that the children at Ysgol Bryn Gwalia have rich opportunities, equipping them for their next steps into high school. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and listening to live music.

The Award for Digital Innovator of the Year Judge

Jodie worked as a teacher, ICT coordinator, Assessment Lead and Enrichment coordinator in primary schools in East and South East London. She won a number of awards, particularly for her use of technology across the curriculum and to support school staff and parents. Since leaving full time teaching to start a family, Jodie has been working in education technology and primary assessment. Jodie is delighted to continue to be a judge for the Teaching Awards as it never fails to inspire her and remind her of the amazing professionals we are lucky to have, in the UK, teaching and caring for our children.

Jodie is a member of the Edtech Panel for the AI in Education group.

You can listen to Jodie sharing her knowledge on an EDSK podcast about research in Edtech, following the UNESCO report findings.

The Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School Judge

2007 Gold winner of The Award for Headteacher of the Year,  Kevin has been Head for nearly 30 years in three schools. Chair of Hampshire’s Primary Standing Committee and a former SIP, Kevin is a curriculum expert for the NPQ qualifications, contributed to the Cambridge Curriculum Review and has spoken on leadership at The TES Show, The Education Show and Westminster conferences, as well as on reading at The Sunday Times Festival of Education (Wellington College) and chaired a national conference on Pupil Premium in London. Publications include Brilliant Primary Teacher (Pearson) and other books and articles for The Guardian, Independent, TES and Teach Primary.

Lisa is the CEO ( Interim) at Bright Futures where she has served as an Executive Leader for the last 10 years as Director of Teaching School Hubs, Director of Education and Deputy CEO. Lisa is passionate about the difference education can make takes every opportunity to be an ambassador for the sector, recently receiving an OBE for ‘services to education’ in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Lisa started her career as a secondary English teacher at a large mixed comprehensive school, she then went onto work in a variety of senior leadership roles across several schools.
Lisa’s team support thousands of Early Career Teachers across Greater Manchester giving them a strong start to our profession and she is committed to system leadership. Lisa was recently the Chair of a Trust Board for two years at another MAT.
Outside of work Lisa loves to run, teach spin classes at the gym, read and spend time with her precious children and the best dog in the world.

The Award for Making a Difference – Primary School of the Year Judge

Liz Ormerod is Headteacher at Delph Side Community Primary School in Skelmersdale. Under her leadership, the school was recognised as Primary School of the Year  – Making a Difference at the 2019 Pearson National Teaching Awards.

Delph Side’s success is rooted in values-led leadership and a strong commitment to the local community. Recent developments include the establishment of two Special Educational Needs Units and the creation of a community Art and Design Technology Studio, strengthening inclusive practice and community engagement.

Working collaboratively beyond her own school, Liz founded the Forward Network – a partnership of like-minded schools committed to shared improvement and mutual support. She is a member of the Edge Hill University Strategic Partnership Board and a trustee of the charity Sparkle Bean, which supports schools following the loss of a child or member of staff. Liz is currently undertaking the NPQEL, reflecting her ongoing commitment to system leadership and professional development.

Outside of her professional role, Liz values time spent travelling with her husband and their two children. Exploring different cultures and communities, most recently during a summer in Colombia, continues to shape her perspective on education, inclusion and global citizenship.

The Award for Early Years Team of the Year Judge

Louise began her career in Early Years after gaining her prized NNEB diploma, and spent the next 17 years working within the private sector, where she developed her love and passion for play-rich and child-centred practice.

After having her own children she returned to university to qualify as an Early Years teacher in the maintained sector, and was delighted to secure her dream role as Early Years Lead at the primary school she attended as a child. During this time, Louise’s interest in inclusion and Special Educational Needs (SEN) continued to grow, particularly in supporting children with complex needs. She went on to lead the development of a complex needs base within the school, creating a nurturing and inclusive provision rooted firmly in an Early Years ethos.

Louise is incredibly proud that the collaborative work across the Early Years team and complex needs base which was recognised in 2022 with the inaugural Gold Award for Early Years Team of the Year. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Lily and Biby, exploring the nearby pinewoods where she is lucky enough to live. These woodland walks inspired the names of both the school nursery, Little Squirrels, and the complex needs unit, The Pines, reflecting her belief in the power of nature, play and connection.

Lynn has worked throughout his career at Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili where he started as a newly qualified teacher in 1993. Lynn was appointed as the school’s deputy head teacher before becoming the school’s head teacher in March, 2002. Lynn is an Estyn trained inspector and has worked as a Challenge Advisor, School Improvement Partner, NPQH panel member and chair. He has supported and mentored aspiring head teachers over many years as well as coordinating “School to School” work enabling schools who have been placed in monitoring categories by Estyn to address the recommendations received following inspections.

Lynn’s school is a Lead Partner School with Cardiff Metropolitan University and as such they provide training courses and placements for PGCE students on an annual basis. The school also provides training and support for teaching assistants, Higher Level Teaching Assistants, Newly Qualified Teachers, Middle Leaders and Senior Leaders. Lynn has led his school through three highly successful Estyn Inspections in 2007, 2013 and 2022.

Lynn is married with three children and lives in Penarth, South Wales. He enjoys walking with his family and is  currently walking Offa’s Dyke with his son. Lynn swims, plays football and goes to the gym as often as he can.

The Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Secondary School Judge

Maire Thompson is currently principal of Hazelwood Integrated College, Newtownabbey, and formerly principal of Malone College, Belfast. She is an Associate Assessor with the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) and an Associate of the Association of Education Advisers (AoEA). Maire is a member of various educational stakeholder groups, including the CCEA Curriculum and Assessment Principals Goup, the Excluded Lives Advisory Group and the A Fair Start Stakeholders Reference Group. Maire was awarded an Honorary Doctorate for services to Education by Ulster University in 2022, Maire is the Pearson National Teaching Awards Gold Winner of Headteacher of the Year in a Secondary School, 2017.

Chair of CCEA Education Committee

The Award for Excellence in Special Needs Education Judge

Mark Lambert has over 15 years’ experience working across teaching, student support, and leadership roles within education in the North East of England. His career spans special education schools, further education, and higher education, giving him a rare, end-to-end perspective on inclusion across the learner journey. This breadth continues to shape and define a measured, student-focused approach to institutional change.

As Head of Accessibility and Inclusion  Mark operates at institutional level to shape how accessibility and inclusion are positioned within the University’s academic and professional infrastructure. His work has influenced strategic policy direction, governance arrangements, and assurance frameworks, guided by a strong emphasis on clarity, fairness, and sustainability. He works closely with staff and students to define and align regulatory responsibility, educational quality, and student experience, with the aim of setting sector-leading standards while ensuring high-quality experience for both students and staff.

Mark contributes to national conversations on inclusive education and student support and is pleased to serve as a judge for the SEND and Inclusive Practice category, recognising effective, well-designed practice across the sector.

Outside of work, Mark values time with his family above everything else. It keeps him grounded and provides a clear sense of perspective on why the work matters.

The Award for Early Years Team of the Year Judge

Melanie has worked as Quality and Standards Manager for the Early Years Alliance for 15 years and has more than 30 years’ experience in early years.
In her role with the Alliance, Melanie supports the sector to achieve and maintain best practice with resources, information, publications, and by writing and delivering training. In recent years she has supported settings in SE Asia and other countries to promote the value of a play-based curriculum and continuously strives to ensure that every child has the best possible experience in their early years.

In her spare time Melanie enjoys water-colour painting and horse riding.

The Award for Impact through Partnership Judge

Science teacher and learning geek. Loves food, travel and adventures with my wife and kids. I have 20+ years’ experience, from leadership across the maintained, alternative provision, and independent sectors, to leading curriculum and assessment nationally for Ark Initial Teacher Training. In 2014, I was honoured to be named a Top Overseas Teacher by the Singapore Ministry of Education.

Since completing a Master’s in Education on the cognitive science of expertise in 2023, my work has expanded into a more holistic, developmental approach. I balance my time between Director of Artificial Intelligence, Regional NPQ Lead for River Learning Trust, alongside independent work championing human development.

An Oxford University AI graduate and Oxethica certified AI professional, I aim to bridge the gap between emerging technology and the biological realities of learning. This led to the founding of the Affective Learning Lab, focused on translating affective neuroscience into human-centered design for both education and business L&D. A judge for the Pearson National Teaching Awards since 2011, I remain dedicated to championing the complex, social nature of human development in an increasingly digital world.

White Paper: The Affective Foundations of Human Learning.

Using AI: Being Smart, Heart, and Humble

Contributing to this book by Christian Moore-Anderson: https://www.amazon.com/Difference-Maker-Enacting-Systems-Teaching-ebook/dp/B0DCQ2Q8ZN?ref_=ast_author_dp

The Award for Unsung Hero Judge

Mo has spent several years immersed in a secondary school as a Pastoral Safeguarding and Behaviour Practitioner, Sport Coach, and supporting the PE Department. His role focuses on maintaining the well-being, safety, and protection of pupils through education, managing behavior, and mentoring programs.

Mo was recognized with a Silver Award for Unsung Hero in the Pearson National Teaching Awards, which celebrates the achievements of educators across the UK.

A former GB and England Wrestling Athlete, Mo represented the England team in World Championships, European and Commonwealth Games, and International Grand Prix. He is currently a National GB Development Coach, supporting young people on their wrestling journey for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Mo also launched Burnage Community Wrestling Club in South Manchester, providing accessible, inclusive, and diverse freestyle wrestling to grassroots participants and National GB wrestlers.

The Award for Outstanding New Teacher of the Year Judge

Ever since the age of five, Motiur has wanted to be a teacher and is now “living the dream”. Growing up and starting his career in tough, gritty East London, he has developed a passion for taking on challenges in other tough, gritty schools around the country. From Lowestoft to Ipswich to West Sussex, Motiur embodies his Trust’s mantra of going where we are needed most and making a difference in the toughest communities. He is determined to show that anything is possible in schools and that no barrier should define, or hinder, a child’s life chances.

In 2025, he was part of the team that was awarded gold for Primary School of the Year, a remarkable turnaround in a school that always saw itself in the gutter but never dared to look at the stars. External validation aside, it was the daily diet of love, compassion, joy, and quiet fearlessness that made it such a wondrous and magical place.

In those rare personal moments afforded to teachers, Motiur enjoys cricket, football, philosophy, travelling, reading…oh, and a cheeky bit of poetry!

The Award for Unsung Hero Judge

Nicola was awarded a Silver Award for Secondary Teacher of the Year in 2019 and joined the judging panel in 2021. She has taught in secondary schools across the North West, leading maths departments to success, and has a real passion for teaching.

Nicola is currently Vice Principal and a professional mentor at Ormiston Horizon Academy in Stoke-on-Trent.

She has a phenomenal record of success. As a maths teacher with an excellent track record, colleagues say she could take a job anywhere. Instead, she chooses to work in areas of high social disadvantage to break down barriers, defy stereotypes, and watch her students thrive.

Outside of work, Nicola loves spending time with her two wonderful daughters, taking spontaneous city breaks, and settling down with a great book.

The Award for Outstanding New Teacher of the Year Judge

Oli has been teaching for the past 8 years at a secondary school in Dorset and was recently awarded Secondary School Teacher of the Year in the 2024 National Teaching Awards. He is currently Assistant Head Teacher who has helped to co-author and implement a Taking Boys Seriously Programme in which support is given to develop equity within education. This involves mentoring schemes, mental health awareness and support and academic strategies given to develop the young men on both a local and national level.

Oli also runs the English, Ethics and Performance faculty in his school and has experience in curriculum change and oversight within English as well as establishing and implementing strategic vision across Ethics, Music, Media and Drama.

The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School – South Team Judge

Pam recently retired after 35 years of teaching. She was a Primary School Teacher and Deputy Head, working in schools in Buckinghamshire, Wiltshire, and Monmouthshire. Pam thoroughly enjoyed her teaching career and is now embracing the freedom to pursue other interests and challenges. She has been a Teaching Awards Judge since winning the UK award in 2004.

The Award for Teaching Assistant of the Year Judge

Petrina Ferris was born in Omagh, Northern Ireland and studied Music Education at Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin and has a Master’s Degree in Music Performance from Guildhall School of Music and Drama, London. She began her career as a professional opera singer with Glyndebourne Opera before a career change to teach across both the secondary and primary sectors. Petrina is a Headteacher and takes up the Headship of Bevendean Primary school and Nursery in Brighton next term. From 2019-2025 she worked as an executive leader and Head at the Bluebell Federation of Schools in East Sussex where she was the proud Pearson National Teaching Awards’ winner for Impact Through Partnership.

Judge for The Award for FE Lecturer of the Year 

As an Assistant Principal within an esteemed 6th form college, Raza brings forth an extensive background spanning over 15 years in the realm of post-16 education. His expertise shines particularly in the domains of A Level Physical Education and Applied General Level 3 in Sport, where he is recognized as an exceptional educator.

His professional network extends beyond the classroom, with established connections across the sports industry. Notably, he contributes as a Talent ID Scout for Wigan Warriors, a renowned Super League and World Champion club, fostering talent and nurturing the next generation of athletes.

Additionally, Raza’s involvement as a co-owner of the ProVision football academy demonstrates his dedication to grassroots development. Through this endeavor, he has the privilege of delivering top-tier football training sessions to young enthusiasts aged 5-14 in Ossett, Wakefield, empowering them to pursue their athletic dreams.

Complementing his academic and professional pursuits, Raza serves as a key figure in regional football coaching initiatives. As the JPL North of England representative football coach and Pre-academy coach at Yorkshire RTC, he plays an integral role in shaping the future of aspiring footballers, imparting invaluable skills and knowledge to help them thrive both on and off the field.

The Award for Unsung Hero Judge

Reema Reid has been a pivotal figure in the educational landscape of London since 2009, serving as a head of school in Lambeth and later as a substantive headteacher in Southwark. Her journey in education began humbly as a lunchtime supervisor and teaching assistant in Lambeth, eventually rising to the role of Head of School. Reema’s dedication and exceptional leadership were recognized in 2021 when she was awarded the prestigious Gold Teaching Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School at the Pearson National Teaching Awards. Today, she contributes her expertise as a judge for the Teaching Awards.
As the daughter of a Windrush immigrant, Reema’s background fuels her passion for mentorship and empowerment. She has been instrumental in coaching and mentoring ethnic minority teachers, encouraging them to assume leadership roles in their schools. Her influence extends beyond the classroom, inspiring many global minority educators and pupils to pursue and achieve their aspirations.
Reema champions a vital yet often overlooked cause: the significance of food quality in shaping the school day. She recognizes that her role as an educator goes beyond academic instruction; it encompasses the well-being of every pupil who steps through the school gates. By advocating for nutritious and high-quality food, she ensures that students are not only educated but also nurtured, understanding that a healthy diet is integral to their overall success and well-being.
In a world where knowledge is power, Reema Reid stands as a beacon of inspiration, tirelessly working to uplift and empower the next generation of leaders. Her commitment to education and the holistic development of her pupils underscores the profound impact one dedicated individual can have on countless lives.

The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School – North Team Judge

Rob went to Perryfields having served as Assistant Head / SENCO at Gorse Hill Community Primary School, a large Inner City Primary School. He has been Deputy Head Teacher and Curriculum lead for the past 11 years at Perryfields Primary PRU – whilst also maintaining teaching a KS2 class.
Rob achieved the National Professional Headship Qualification in 2022. Perryfields has had 5 consecutive Outstanding OFSTED Judgements, is an IQM Flagship and National Inclusion Champion School an SMSC and LOtC Gold school, and a DfE Behaviour Hubs Lead school.
Rob has presented at National Conferences and led webinars on Inclusion and Positive Behaviour Management. His engaging style and exceptional subject knowledge ensured highly positive evaluations of these sessions. Within Worcestershire, Rob was the Assistant Chair of the Nurture Group Steering Committee, Nurture Group Lead an ECaW lead teacher and a Reading Champions Ambassador – again, presenting at National conferences promoting boys engagement in reading.
Rob was the 2020 Silver winner in The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School. In addition, Rob was also winner of the 2010 TOAST award for Primary School teacher, Runner up in Worcestershire Teacher of the Year 2019 and Runner up in the Nasen Primary Teacher of the Year awards.
Rob now judges The Teacher of the Year in a Primary School category. Outside of school, Rob enjoys spending his spare time accompanying his wife watching his son and daughter compete at athletics, football, netball and cricket events across the country.

The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School – South Team Judge

Romayne has been a teacher for 11 years and is subject leader of a Social Sciences and Modern Ethics faculty. She currently teaches three subjects and enjoys the variety and excitement working as a teacher brings. Romayne is passionate about developing whole-school teaching and learning as well as improving the wellbeing of staff as this has a direct impact on students. As a result of this, she has been a union representative and is currently a school governor. Romayne truly believes that teaching is the most rewarding career and feels privileged to get to work with young people.

The Award for Making a Difference – Secondary School of the Year Judge

Sam Coy is the Director of Quality Assurance and School Improvement at the Flying High Partnership. Previously, he has served in a range of leadership roles including the CEO of a small Multi-Academy Trust (Scholars Trust) in Leicestershire and before this was the Associate Education Director for East Midlands, Thames Valley, and London at Anthem Schools Trust , Before this he was the Executive Headteacher at Benjamin Adlard Primary School in Gainsborough and Mount Street Academy in Lincoln. During his tenure as Headteacher at Benjamin Adlard, the school progressed from Special Measures to a ‘Good’ rating within 12 months and was honoured with the Pearson UK Primary School of the Year award for ‘Making a Difference’ in 2018. Sam is also a judge for the Pearson National Teaching Awards.

The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School – North Team Judge

Sara won the National Teaching Award for Primary Teacher of the Year in 2002. She was invited to join the judging panel in 2003 and proudly received an MBE for Services to Education in 2004. Her teaching career has primarily focused on the Early Years, and she has enjoyed the challenges of Senior Management and Local Authority Advisory work. Sara has a deep passion for Foundation Stage and Key Stage One practice, and the excitement of working with enthusiastic young children has never faded. She has two children, and after taking some time to experience school life from a parent’s perspective, she returned to the Foundation Stage setting.

The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School – South Team Judge

Sarah is a retired teacher with many years of experience in senior leadership, including 13 of these as a secondary headteacher of a large comprehensive school.
She has worked as a School Improvement Advisor within two local authority areas and has been the 14-19 Coordinator for a NW Essex consortium of schools focusing on Alternative Education and IAG. She is the Professional Officer for a consortium of Essex secondary schools working together to bring about school improvement and also has experience as a member of Interim Executive Boards, supporting schools in challenging circumstances.
Sarah is a Trustee in two Multi-Academy Trusts, Chair of governors in a Primary School and is involved in the management committees in a Therapeutic Education Department of an Adolescent Psychiatric Unit and an Outdoor Education Centre. She works with two Essex based charities: The David Randall Foundation and Families InFocus (Essex), the latter supporting families with children with SEND. Escaping to the slopes to ski in the winter and looking after an allotment in the summer months provide some relaxation from the world of education!

The Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School Judge

Sheila Ralph is a recently retired headteacher from one of the largest primary schools in South Yorkshire, with over 34 years teaching and leading experience in all key primary phases and a Local Leader in Education. I have been judging for the Teaching Awards since 2005.
One teacher made a difference in my life; I aimed throughout my teaching career to make a difference in many childrens’ lives. No child ever asked to be born; my entire philosophy was aimed at creating learning opportunities and environments for all to succeed, leading staff to work together ‘to make smiles grow’ enabling happy confident individuals to thrive.

Sheila enjoys musical theatre, fell walking and skiing.

Sheree is Associate Principal for Enhanced Curriculum at Sunderland College, with responsibility for the development and delivery of the Enhanced Curriculum, including Global Skills and Real World Maths, alongside strategic oversight of the Creative, Digital and Computing Faculty. Sheree’s role focuses on ensuring that the enhanced curriculum is meaningful, inclusive, and clearly connected to students’ future pathways, employability, and progression.

Sheree’s professional background is in Performing Arts, specialising in drama and acting. After graduating, She began teaching in Further Education in 2001 and have worked in the sector for over 20 years as a teacher and senior leader. During this time, Sheree has held a range of roles, including Lecturer, Teaching and Learning Coach, Advanced Practitioner, Curriculum Manager, Faculty Director for Creative, Digital and Computing, and now Associate Principal.

Sheree is passionate about developing and supporting high-quality practitioners. In 2018, a newly qualified drama lecturer she nominated was awarded Gold for FE Teacher of the Year, and in 2019, the music team she nominated achieved a Silver Winner award for FE Team of the Year. These successes reflect the talent and commitment of colleagues across the sector.

Outside of college, Sheree has served as a Trustee for the Sunderland Empire Theatre Trust and is currently a Trustee for Sunderland Culture, maintaining strong links between education, culture, and the creative industries.

The Award for Excellence in Special Needs Education Judge

Steven Baker is the CEO of The People’s Learning Trust. He has led four schools to outstanding Ofsted judgements across a range of sectors and is a former Ofsted Inspector. In 2019, Steven was made a Founding Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching for his ‘significant and sustained’ impact on teaching and he has previously worked with the Ministry of Justice in youth and adult establishments nationwide as they focus their efforts on developing a culture of rehabilitation.

The schools he has led have won a range of national awards for their compassionate, trauma-informed approach and the Department for Education cited them as an example of best practice in mental health due to their focus on supporting student and staff well-being. Steven co-authored a critically acclaimed book about this approach (A School Without Sanctions, Bloomsbury) which was published in October 2020. He sits on the Advisory Board for the Centre for Educational Leadership at Liverpool John Moores University, the Advisory Board for the think tank Learnus and the Mental Health Stakeholder Forum for the Crown Prosecution Service. Steven is also a lead judge for the Pearson National Teaching Awards.

In addition to his work in education, Steven helped develop a ground-breaking place-based change project with the aim of tackling deprivation, and improving outcomes for all, across an entire community (www.cradle2career.org.uk). The outcomes achieved by the project to date have been outstanding and the Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor has committed to rolling it out across all Local Authorities in the region.

A former United Nations war crimes investigator, Steven received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service as a member of the Remembering Srebrenica Northwest Board and was awarded an OBE in the 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, in recognition of his services to education and tackling hatred.

Podcast:

Steve is a transformative figure in education and a passionate advocate for non-punitive, compassionate approaches to behaviour management. You can hear Steve’s innovative methods for de-escalation and emotional intelligence, both in children and adults in this podcast.

Book:

A School Without Sanctions available here

The Award for Making a Difference – Secondary School of the Year Judge

Sukhbir has worked in education for 36 years in inner city Birmingham, holding many leadership positions including Head of Year, Head of Mathematics and 25 years on Senior Leadership Teams during which time he has been Deputy Head, Head of School and Executive Principal in two Academy Trusts.
Sukhbir has supported many schools facing challenging circumstances and has championed national projects such as ‘raising the achievement of black boys’. He has also played a significant role in the National College programme for aspiring leaders from BAME backgrounds.
Sukhbir was awarded the Pearson National Teaching Silver Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2022 and had the honour of being selected as a Batonbearer in The Queen’s Baton Relay as part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Sukhbir is a serving Ofsted inspector and an Education Consultant for Birmingham Education Partnership and a proud Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching.
Sukhbir was one of the founder members of a well known Bhangra Dance Group in Birmingham who represented the UK in many prestigious events both in the UK and abroad.

The Award for Outstanding New Teacher of the Year Judge

Zac Moxon is Director of Music at Chiswick School, and was the Gold Winner for the Outstanding New Teacher of The Year in 2023. He studied academic music as an undergraduate before doing a postgraduate degree in Bassoon performance at music college. Since being at Chiswick, he has been very involved in community music, taking bands, choirs and orchestras to play at local events, including street parties, live music nights at pubs, choral evensongs at churches, and performances for seniors’ lunches. He is also very keen to see more pupil premium children take up music lessons and has launched a scholarship programme at school to help with this.

Zac’s favourite composer is Brahms. Outside of music and teaching Zac is a passionate supporter of Birmingham City Football Club.

You can listen to a Music Teacher’s podcast featuring Zac here.

Here are some of the music projects Zac has been involved in at Chiswick School.