Our Trust People Awards continue to go from strength-to-strength with over 100 nominations submitted for this year’s awards, up from 71 last year.
The winners of this year’s awards were announced live at our Trust Conference at Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, on 2nd November. This the second year for the Trust People Awards – a peer-nominated initiative celebrating colleagues who embody our Trust values and priorities.
Celebrating our staff community
Laura Taylor, Director of People at The 3-18 Education Trust hosted the awards in front of an enthusiastic audience of 600 teachers, support staff and members of our wider community.
Laura commented: “Our Trust People Awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise the extraordinary people who make our Trust such a special place to work. With more than 100 nominations this year, we heard so many inspiring stories of colleagues showing kindness, commitment and going the extra mile. Every nomination is a powerful reminder of the difference our people make each and every day.”
The five deserving winners were revealed by Ruth Shaw, Headteacher at William Brookes School and Tom Larkham, Headteacher at Coleham Primary School.
You can find photos and excerpts from each winner’s nomination below.
The Accomplished Award winner – Charlie Bailey, Teacher of PE, Thomas Adams School
For delivering outstanding education or training to our students or staff, or an outstanding Trust or school project
Charlie is an exceptional teacher whose passion, commitment and care consistently inspire students and colleagues. Over the past five years, he has led international expeditions to Kenya, Cambodia and Brunei, providing more than 100 students with life-changing opportunities to experience new cultures, tackle personal challenges and contribute to community projects.
Charlie’s commitment to enriching young lives extends far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impact on every student fortunate enough to learn from him.
The Belonging Award winner – Sally Wynn, Teaching Assistant Lead, St Martins School
For creating a sense of belonging in our schools, teams or communities
Sally brings a remarkable sense of calm to everything she does. With children and colleagues always at the heart of her work, she tirelessly creates safe, nurturing spaces where everyone feels supported. Selfless, dedicated, and endlessly compassionate, she never seeks recognition, yet makes a profound difference every single day. Sally is a truly outstanding role model and an inspiration to all.
Sally said: “I am truly honoured to have received the Belonging Award, I see it as a reflection of the amazing team I work with.”
The Compassionate Award winner – George Hughes, Teacher, Coleham Primary School
For showing care and understanding towards others
George leads with calmness, compassion and genuine care, ensuring every child feels valued, included and able to thrive. He adapts learning to meet individual needs, nurtures positive relationships, and creates a classroom where children feel happy, safe and supported. A trusted colleague and positive role model, George is a real asset to our school community.
George said: “I’m very grateful for this award, and shocked I won! I’m genuinely thrilled to receive this award, and I feel incredibly lucky to work alongside such dedicated staff and amazing children every day.”
The Resilience Award winner – Alison Pope, Headteacher, St Martins
For being solutions-focused and intelligently managing challenges
Alison has transformed St Martin’s through her unwavering commitment, visible leadership, and relentless dedication. From day one, she brought clarity, structure, and high expectations, leading from the front and supporting staff, students, and families through every challenge. Her tireless work, often far beyond normal hours, has created a shared vision that people believe in and want to achieve. Thanks to Alison’s leadership, St Martin’s future is brighter than ever.
Alison said: “It was a very unexpected and special moment. Thank you for the Resilience Award, and to everyone who has supported me along the way.”
The Rising Star Award winner – Mark Jones, Cover Supervisor, William Brookes School
For demonstrating ambition and the pursuit of excellence in their roles
Mark’s ambition, dedication and belief in William Brookes School set him apart. He regularly gives his own time to improve opportunities for students, transforming the new Hair & Beauty learning space and leading the refurbishment of the student gym. Always looking ahead, Mark combines vision, creativity and hard work to turn ideas into reality, making a lasting impact across the school.
Mark said: “It was a lovely day and to win my award made it even more special. We are all very lucky. We might not feel it every moment of every day, but we really do have the best job in the world. Value every single moment.”
Congratulations to all this year’s winner and nominees!
Notes for editors
The 3‑18 Education Trust is a Shropshire‑based Multi‑Academy Trust providing a high quality, aspirational education from early years through to post‑16.
Our Trust comprises fourteen schools bringing together a vibrant and diverse community of over 6,200 students, 900 teaching and support staff and 84 local committee members.
September 2026 marks ten years of The 3-18 Education Trust, from the founding schools of Priory and St Martins in 2016 to our growing Shropshire-wide community of schools today.
This year we celebrate Our Trust at 10 recognising ten years of collaboration, growth and shared ambition across our Trust and community of schools.
For press enquiries, contact media@318education.co.uk.
