The search for London’s Unsung Education Hero is on

Time is running out for London’s parents, guardians and students to nominate an unsung hero from their school community in the UK’s most prestigious education awards – The Pearson National Teaching Awards. Nominations can be submitted until 1st March for school staff members who consistently go the extra mile to enhance the lives of young people and the community.

This is an award for anyone who works in education; teachers and school leaders who wholeheartedly dedicate themselves to fostering students’ learning, and the support staff who also play invaluable roles behind the scenes. It could be the school office manager who greets every child by name, the caretaker who high-fives students in the hallway, or the lunch supervisor who encourages outstanding manners at meal times – these unsung heroes enhance education communities every day and this is an opportunity to let them know they are appreciated.

Last year Zac Moxon won the Award for Outstanding New Teacher of the Year. Zac was unexpectedly asked to take over the music department in early 2021. With absolutely no experience teaching music, Zac rose to the occasion. In collaboration with the rest of the music staff, Zac has successfully set up a choir, enabled students to record an album, orchestrated venue partnerships for the school’s steelpan group, and increased the uptake of GCSE Music by 50% in the school since 2021. Alongside this, Zac created a scholarship where students from low-income backgrounds can take free music lessons. Zac’s dedication, compassion, and dependability have allowed students across the school to find their musical passions and nurture them.

If this sounds like someone you know at your local school, then now is the time to make sure they are recognised for their commitment and hard work.

Swansea City striker, former PE teaching assistant, and Teaching Awards Trust ambassador, Jamal Lowe, recently visited Pontarddulais Comprehensive School, home to the gold winner of the 2018 Headteacher of the Year in a Secondary award. Here he spoke with BBC Bitesize about the important role teachers play in shaping the next generation and the positive impact the Pearson National Teaching Awards has on teachers and communities. He said:

“Being a teaching assistant was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, I loved watching children thrive in whatever sport they did. It’s not just catching a ball or running around the track, it’s about personal growth and how sport helps children develop. I believe sport is a marker for life as it helps you build confidence and social skills. The Pearson National Teaching Awards is a fantastic way to appreciate and celebrate the amazing teachers and support staff in your community.”

Lowe was an assistant PE teacher at Coombe Hill Primary School before playing for Bournemouth AFC in the Premier League. Jamal has also won four international caps for Jamaica where he has played against Lionel Messi.

Mary Palmer, Chief Executive Officer at The Teaching Awards Trust said: “These awards shine a much-needed spotlight on the great work that takes place in schools and colleges across the UK. The wonderful teachers and all staff in education deserve huge recognition and praise for everything they do to educate and support children. The Unsung Hero award gives the opportunity to highlight their exceptional commitment and dedication.”

Nominations for the Unsung Hero award in the Pearson National Teaching Awards can be made on the Teaching Awards Trust website by 1st March.