Prestigious Award for Our Director of Education

 

Our Director of Education, Julie Carson has been recognised with a Silver Award for Transformational Use of Digital Technology in this year's Pearson National Teaching Awards. Chosen from thousands of nominees, she will now be in with the chance of winning the highly desired Gold Award, which will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony in London and on BBC One’s The One Show later this year.

Having been in education for 30 years, 20 of which have been in senior leadership roles, Julie has led a pioneering Trust-wide strategy combining Universal Design for Learning, AI, and inclusive technology to improve outcomes, reduce barriers, and transform teaching and learning across their five primary schools.

Julie is one of 94 deserving teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff and institutions recognised as a silver winner in this year’s awards for the lasting impact they have on shaping the lives of young people.

The announcement follows tributes from celebrities, students and schools across the UK as they say thank you to all those who work in education to mark National Thank a Teacher Day.

Celebrating the whole education community, National Thank a Teacher Day and the Pearson National Teaching Awards are run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity established over 25 years ago to celebrate the transformative impact of education, shining a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.

Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, says: “The dedication and impact of those involved in educating young people is truly remarkable. Their influence extends well beyond the classroom - offering encouragement, inspiration, and unwavering support that can shape lives for years to come. That’s why National Thank a Teacher Day is an important opportunity to pause and celebrate all that they do.

"I’m also delighted to be able to congratulate this year’s Silver Award winners. Your passion and commitment to shaping the next generation is extraordinary. Thank you for the difference you make every single day."

Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, says: “Every day, educators across the UK go above and beyond to inspire, support, and shape the future generation. Today, we proudly recognise those making an extraordinary impact. Our Silver Award winners represent the very best of the profession, and we’re thrilled to celebrate their dedication and achievements. Congratulations to all of this year’s Silver winners!”

Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, says: "On Thank a Teacher Day, I want to celebrate the remarkable professionals who are the backbone of our education system. Brilliant teachers make the single biggest difference to a child’s education.

"I've experienced first-hand how a great teacher can make all the difference. Teachers don't just deliver lessons – they transform lives, inspire curiosity, and build the confidence our children need to succeed. For this incredible commitment to our nation's future, we owe our teachers our deepest gratitude."

Dr Elise Ecoff, Chief Education Officer at Nord Anglia Education, Sponsor of the Award for Transformation Use of Digital Technology, says: “Those who harness technology most effectively in education have the power to supercharge learning, unlock potential, and transform outcomes. Nord Anglia Education is proud to sponsor this award celebrating educators who lead the way in using digital tools to elevate teaching and learning. Congratulations to this year’s Silver Award winners, your creativity and dedication are shaping the future of education!”