Myth Busting
Think the Teaching Awards aren’t for you? We’re here to share the truth behind them.
We’re busting the biggest myths about the Teaching Awards and showing how anyone in education can get the recognition they deserve.
“It costs money to enter.”
Entering is completely free. You don’t need to be a Pearson customer, and no one pays to attend the ceremony. It’s all about celebrating the profession, not making profit.
“I don’t have time to write a long entry.”
You can start your nomination any time and save your progress. Pick it up when you’re ready, and there is no need to do it all in one sitting.
“Are entries judged by AI or software?”
Absolutely not, every entry is read by real people. Our judges are experienced education professionals, many of whom are past winners themselves. There’s no AI or automated scoring involved, and every nomination is reviewed with genuine care, understanding, and appreciation for the impact you’ve made.
“It’s just a popularity contest.”
Not at all. All entries go through a robust judging process by experienced judges (many are past winners and actively work in education). It’s about impact, not how many people you know.
“They only want flashy or TV-worthy teaching.”
Definitely not. We’re inspired by real impact and real stories, from quiet, thoughtful teaching to big, bold lessons. What you see on TV is filmed after judging, and doesn’t influence the result.
“Only certain schools can win.”
Not true, all UK schools and settings can enter, the only stipulation is that all settings must be UK based, and be physical settings. We have shortlisted and visited a variety of schools including, but not limited to, state-maintained schools, SEND schools, all-through academies, infant-only schools, middle schools, hospital schools, prison schools, PRU’s, FE colleges, University Technical Colleges, free schools and Steiner schools.
“We’re not an ‘Outstanding’ school, so why bother?”
Judges don’t look at Ofsted grades. We celebrate brilliant individuals and teams, even in the toughest circumstances.
“It singles out one person.”
Even individual awards celebrate entire teams and communities. We also have categories that recognise whole schools, partnerships, and collective impact.
“A judging visit will feel like an inspection.”
No, our judging visits are warm, friendly and celebratory, and never like Ofsted. We’re here to spotlight brilliant work, not pick faults.
“I wouldn’t know how to handle the press”
Don’t worry, we give schools hands-on, practical support with media and publicity with guidance that few other schemes offer, completely free of charge.
