At this year’s conference, we announced the winners of The 3-18 Education Trust People Awards – our first peer-nominated awards celebrating colleagues who embody our Trust values and priorities.
Celebrating our staff community
Laura Taylor, Director of HR at The 3-18 Education Trust hosted the awards in front of an enthusiastic audience of over 570 teachers and support staff.
Laura commented: “Being part of the inaugural People Awards was such an uplifting experience. From reading over 70 heartfelt nominations to celebrating the incredible contributions of our colleagues, the whole process reminded me why our values matter so much. I truly enjoyed every moment.”
The five deserving winners were announced on stage by Ruth Shaw, Headteacher at William Brookes School and Sam Aiston, Headteacher at Bowbrook Primary School.
This is the first year for the peer-nominated awards which received over 70 nominations for awards reflecting our Trust values and priorities.
Congratulations to all our winners and nominees!
The Accomplished Award winner
For delivering outstanding education or training to our students or staff, or an outstanding Trust or school project
Cathy Young
Head of Department MFL
St Martins 3-16 School
Cathy said: “I’d like to say a very big thank you to whoever nominated me and to all of those who have congratulated me since. It was a lovely surprise and I shall spend my voucher wisely…thanks again!”
The Belonging Award winner
For creating a sense of belonging in our schools, teams or communities
Rachel Howell-James
Headteacher
Much Wenlock Primary School & Nursery
Rachel said: “I’m honoured to win an award that represents something so core to my values. This really means a lot. At Much Wenlock Primary School, belonging sits right at the heart of everything we do.
True belonging isn’t about fitting in; it’s about being accepted for who you are and helping others feel the same. I’m incredibly proud to be part of a Trust, team and community that believe in that so deeply.”
The Compassionate Award winner
For showing care and understanding towards others
Karen Cooke
Lunchtime Supervisor and Cleaner
William Brookes School
Karen said: “I’m honoured and humble to have received this award, it means a lot.
Thank you to the staff and students at William Brookes School for all their support.”
The Resilience Award winner
For being solutions-focused and intelligently managing challenges
Joel Thomas
Site Manager
St Martins 3-16 School
The Rising Star Award winner
For demonstrating ambition and the pursuit of excellence in their roles
Lizzie Williams
Cover Supervisor, Sports Centre Manager, Long-term Cover Teacher for English KS3/KS4, Long-term Cover Tutor
St Martins 3-16 School
Lizzie said: “I’m so grateful to receive this award. I couldn’t have done it without my amazing colleagues who inspire me to learn and grow every day, thank you!”
Notes for editors
The 3-18 Education Trust is a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) of primary and secondary schools across Shropshire, with a community of over 5,000 students.
For press enquiries, contact media@318education.co.uk.
