TODAY we are delighted to announce the launch of the Worcestershire Education Awards 2022.

We are excited to be launching these awards across all of our local titles and websites – Worcester News, Malvern Gazette, Evesham Journal, Bromsgrove & Droitwich Advertiser, Kidderminster Shuttle and Redditch Advertiser.

The awards will shine a light on those in education who have worked tirelessly to support, teach and care for our young people through what has been an incredibly difficult time and will culminate in a star-studded virtual ceremony when the winners will be announced early next year.

Once again we are honoured to have teamed up with the University of Worcester to launch the award scheme, which is now in its fourth year

This year the awards will have 12 categories, including the new Lockdown Hero award, which seeks to showcase some of those who went the extra mile and beyond to provide a safe place for our children during lockdown and ensure that they did not miss out on their learning, even delivering computers and food packages to homes. Their actions held our communities together and allowed key workers to continue their vital work.

The other categories are:

  • Headteacher of the Year
  • Teacher / Lecturer of the Year
  • New Teacher of the Year
  • Support Staff of the Year
  • Early Years Education/Primary School of the Year
  • Middle/Secondary School of the Year
  • Independent School of the Year
  • Special Educational Needs Award,
  • College or Post-18 Education & Training Provider of the Year Award
  • Star Student (under 16) of the Year
  • Star Student (over 16) of the Year

Regional editor Stephanie Preece said: “It’s been an incredibly tough time for all of those involved in education as our community battled a pandemic subsequent lockdown, and was forced to adapt our very way of life.

“That’s why we have once again teamed up with the University of Worcester to launch the fourth Worcestershire Education Awards scheme and shine a spotlight on those who continue to make a difference.

“It’s time to reward those members of the teaching and education sector for their hard work both in the classroom and behind the scenes.”

Catriona Robinson, acting head of the university’s School of Education, said: “We are delighted to once again be the headline sponsor of the Worcestershire Education Awards. recognising the outstanding commitment of the headteachers, teachers, support staff and volunteers who work in our schools and colleges. 

“Outstanding educators are critical to our children’s futures and never more has it been so important to ensure our children have the best education they can get, as we recover from the impacts of the last 18 months.

“We believe passionately in the ability of education to transform lives and work hard to recruit and train the very best, most talented individuals who can go on to deliver in our schools, early years settings and colleges.”

The University of Worcester is one of the country’s leading providers of teacher education, with more than seven decades of experience in training outstanding professionals to work in education settings locally, nationally and internationally.

The university works closely and productively in partnership with more than 500 schools and education providers across the region.

Nominations are open - just click here

  • If your business or organisation is interested in sponsoring one of the awards contact dale.godliman@newsquest.co.uk