Hall of Fame 2026 (ID 1264)

• Millie Waddington
  SCITT Trainee of the Year
  Millie Waddington

  Millie has been an exceptional trainee this year. She has embraced school life, becoming a valued member of the school community and has secured a role in her placement school as an ECT.

   

  Her integration of the curriculum and her practice have been exemplary, and her contributions at SCITT events are always insightful and reflective. Her lessons are well thought through; she is aware of the needs of her class and is working on adapting accordingly. She engages brilliantly with both her mentor and lead mentor as a coachee, jumping into practice with enthusiasm in order to develop herself as a practitioner.

   

  She contributes beyond her classroom, helping out with duties and clubs, well beyond what is expected of a trainee. Her dedication, commitment to excellence and ability to be in the work together make her a deserving winner.

• Nicholas Bature
  Aldridge ECT of the Year
  Nicholas Bature

  Nicholas has gone above and beyond this year. He has become an exceptional Early Career Teacher whose dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence have been evident throughout his Early Career Teacher Programme (ECTP). He has taught T-Levels to Year 13, multiple subjects outside of his specialism and has consistently ensure his attendance and resilience in school is exceptional. His Brightspace completion and seminar attendance remains joint highest in the Trust.

  Despite navigating significant challenges and periods of upheaval both within school and personally, including the extraordinary experience of having his car catch fire in the car park when he continued to work with it smouldering outside, he remained focused, professional, and determined, completing the programme to an outstanding standard.

  Throughout the year, Nicholas has consistently gone above and beyond for his learners, colleagues, and the wider school community. His resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to making a difference have made him a valued member of the school team and a deserving recipient of this award.

• Diane Hayes
  Aldridge NPQ Participant of the Year
  Diane Hayes

  Diane has demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and professionalism throughout her participation in the NPQ for Leading Teacher Development programme.

  In the small group seminars, she embraced every opportunity for learning and reflection, applying her knowledge with remarkable impact across her setting. Diane's dedication to professional development has translated into meaningful and sustainable improvements within DVHS.

  Through Diane's leadership, the successful implementation of a coaching programme, the development of the ECTP offer, and the introduction of IRIS Connect video technology have all contributed to strengthening teaching practice and fostering a culture of collaboration, reflection, and continuous improvement at DVHS.

  Diane's influence extends beyond her own setting, and she now supports the development of others as an NPQ facilitator, embodying the spirit of leadership and professional growth that this award celebrates at Aldridge Education.

• Tara McMullen
  IRIS Excellence Award
  Tara McMullen

  Tara is an exceptional teacher and leader. Her practice is consistently strong, as evidenced by the quality of learning in the clip submitted for this award. Tara led her class through deeply embedded habits of discussion, setting up careful prompts and provocations, pushing the think ratio onto the pupils. As a result, responses and insights are well crafted, and pupils have developed confidence to build upon and challenge each other's thinking.

  Tara's role becomes that of a facilitator, leading her pupils to come to their own conclusions based on evidence from the text. The clip demonstrates a level of expertise Tara's pupils are lucky to benefit from day in and day out and therefore she is an exceptionally worthy winner of this award.

• Harriet
  Apprentice of the Year Award
  Harriet

  Harriet has made exceptional progress in her Teaching Assistant apprenticeship, reaching the End Point Assessment stage within just 12 months. This is a significant achievement, as the recommended timeframe to reach this point is usually 18 months.

  Throughout her apprenticeship, Harriet's coursework has been consistently completed to a very high standard. She has shown strong research skills and has been able to draw on thoughtful, practical examples from her work at DACA.

  Harriet has a real passion for supporting students with SEND and is committed to helping every learner reach their full potential. She works tirelessly to improve behaviour within the department and brings enthusiasm, care and professionalism to everything she does.

  Feedback from Harriet's line manager has been consistently excellent across all areas of her work. In fact, Harriet is so willing to go above and beyond that one of her development targets was to recognise when it is appropriate to say, “That is not part of my role.”

  At her most recent progress review, Harriet was recognised as having fully developed the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for her apprenticeship. Her line manager commented that there was “nothing in role that needs improvement” and praised Harriet's ability to adapt and apply her learning in practice.

  In summary, Harriet consistently demonstrates the Aldridge Operating Norms in her everyday work. She is committed, enthusiastic and a real asset to DACA and to Aldridge Education.

• Carrie-Lee Falcon
  The Developing Others Award
  Carrie-Lee Falcon

  Carrie is an exceptional coach and a valued member of our coaching team.

  As a mentor and instructional coach, she brings expertise, professionalism and a calm confidence that has a real impact on those around her. She is highly respected by colleagues and students alike, not only for what she knows, but for the way she supports, challenges and encourages others to grow.

  This year, Carrie has also taken on coaching Heads of Year, adding yet another strength to her already impressive contribution. She has approached this with the same care, skill and commitment that define everything she does.

  BACA is incredibly fortunate to benefit from Carrie's expertise, generosity and professionalism. She is a trusted colleague, a brilliant coach, and a very worthy winner of this award.

• Andy Tierney
  Living our Norms: We Use Time Well Award
  Andy Tierney

  Andy is someone who consistently goes above and beyond, and his contribution is deeply appreciated by the whole Sudell team.

  Most recently, when a toilet in the Reception classroom was reported as broken, Andy responded immediately. But when he inspected the facilities, he discovered that the issue was much bigger than first thought: all four toilets were unsafe.

  Rather than simply dealing with the original problem, Andy took it upon himself to repair all four toilets within the same day. Thanks to his quick action, the children had safe, working facilities, and the Reception team avoided what could have been a major disruption.

  That moment says so much about Andy. His work ethic, care and attention to detail make a real difference to the daily life of the school. Much of what he does happens quietly, reliably and without fuss, but it never goes unnoticed.

• Jo Rigby
  Living our Norms: The Standard is Excellence Award
  Jo Rigby

  Jo so powerfully embodies this Aldridge norm.

  For Jo, excellence is not an aspiration for special occasions; it is the standard she brings to every conversation, every decision and every opportunity that could make a difference to a young person's life. She sets an extraordinarily high bar, not only for herself, but for everyone around her, and she does this with a clear and unwavering belief that our students deserve the very best.

  Jo never accepts “no” as the final answer when there is still a chance of achieving a positive outcome for a student. She challenges barriers, asks the difficult questions and keeps pushing until every possible route has been explored. That determination comes from a deep commitment to equity, opportunity and improving life chances.

  She is a powerful advocate for students, particularly when circumstances are challenging. Jo looks beyond what may seem possible in the moment and focuses instead on what could be possible with the right support, ambition and persistence.

  Her drive has an impact far beyond her own role. She raises expectations across the organisation, encouraging us all to move faster, think bigger and do better. Through her leadership, passion and relentless focus on students, Jo helps ensure that we deliver nothing less than the excellent provision our young people deserve.

  Jo is a truly worthy winner of this award.

• Elaine Halsall
  Living our Norms: We're in the Work Together Award
  Elaine Halsall

  Elaine has only recently joined the Sudell team, but in a short space of time she has already become a highly valued member of the team.

  Since starting, Elaine has worked with real care, commitment and determination to ensure that Key Stage 1 children receive the very best support. She takes the time to understand individual needs and makes sure that her work is carefully tailored to help each child make progress.

  Elaine is highly organised, conscientious and thoughtful in every aspect of her role. Her dedication and attention to detail have already had a clear and measurable impact on the children she supports, with real progress being seen as a result of her expertise and commitment.

  Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, Elaine is always willing to step in and support wherever she is needed. Most recently, she covered Breakfast Club during a staff absence, showing her flexibility, reliability and strong team spirit.

  Elaine is a credit to the team and a tremendous asset to the school. Her contribution has already made a meaningful difference, and the school is extremely fortunate to have her as part of its staff.

• John Symes
  Living our Norms: We Champion Equality Award
  John Symes

  John is recognised for his outstanding teaching in Level 1 and Level 2 Multi-Trades.

  Over the past academic year, John has shown exceptional skill, patience and dedication in supporting a wide range of students, many of whom face significant challenges or have special educational needs. His ability to connect with learners, build their confidence and help them recognise their own potential is truly impressive.

  John's classroom is a place of encouragement, structure and success. He creates an environment where students feel safe to learn, ask questions, make mistakes and keep improving. His inclusive approach ensures that every student, whatever their background, ability or starting point, feels valued and supported.

  Beyond the classroom, John is highly respected by colleagues and students alike. His professionalism, compassion and unwavering work ethic make him a role model within the school community.

  This award recognises John's outstanding contribution to teaching, his commitment to inclusive practice and the lasting positive impact he has on the lives of his students.

• Tracy Briant
  Living our Norms: We Behave with Integrity Award
  Tracy Briant

  Tracy is recognised for her exceptional contribution to AAL, where she has worked tirelessly for more than a decade to drive forward its ambitions and support its learners.

   

  As AAL Manager, and through the many other roles she has taken on over the years, Tracy has brought integrity, professionalism and absolute commitment to everything she does. She is known for her honesty, her direct communication and her ability to get things done, always with the best interests of learners and colleagues at heart.

   

  Tracy's contribution is rooted in her passion for adult learning, and in the deep knowledge and understanding she has built over many years. As her role has evolved, she has continued to adapt, grow and take on new challenges with determination and confidence.

   

  She is never afraid to grasp the nettle, find a way forward and develop her skills along the way. That combination of experience, resilience and drive makes Tracy a real force of nature.

   

  AAL, its colleagues and its learners are extremely fortunate to have Tracy!

• Andy Bradley
  Living our Norms: We Lead by Example Award
  Andy Bradley

  Andy is recognised for his exceptional leadership, dedication and care across the whole school community.

  He is an unwavering source of support for both staff and pupils, consistently creating an environment where people feel valued, listened to and empowered. Andy approaches every situation with genuine care, and his calm, reassuring nature means colleagues know they can turn to him for guidance, clarity and support.

  One of Andy's greatest strengths is the way he brings people together. He fosters a culture of collaboration, balancing high standards with humour, warmth and humanity. He has the ability to address challenges seriously while giving staff the confidence to move forward.

  Every concern is met with thoughtfulness, attention to detail and a clear commitment to finding the right solution. Through his leadership, Andy helps others feel supported, capable and part of something bigger.

  Andy, thank you for being with us on this journey. You are an invaluable member of our community, and we are truly grateful for everything you do.

• Sharon Cross
  Aldridge Appreciates Champion
  Sharon Cross

  Sharon received a remarkable number of nominations, and these are just some of the brilliant things her colleagues have recognised her for.

  Again and again, colleagues spoke about Sharon's exceptional leadership, her humanity and the way she makes people feel seen, heard and valued. She leads with honesty, transparency and care, creating a culture where staff feel safe, supported and empowered to grow.

  Many described Sharon as a mentor who has shaped their confidence, their careers and their belief in themselves. One colleague shared that Sharon's faith in their potential had defined their career path, while another said she had re-ignited their love for teaching.

  Sharon's impact reaches every part of UTC life. She celebrates success, strengthens the sense of community and ensures everyone feels part of a shared purpose. Her warm smile, calm presence and clear leadership bring reassurance, even on the most challenging days.

  She is described as decisive, fair, kind, patient and courageous — a leader who expects the best of herself and inspires others to do the same. Her commitment to students, staff and the wider UTC family is absolute.

  Sharon, thank you for everything you have given to UTC@MediaCity. As you're retiring at the end of this academic year, you leave very big shoes to fill, and you will be greatly missed.

• Lucia Nigri
  Volunteer of the Year
  Lucia Nigri

  Lucia plays a vital role in supporting reading across our community through the Salford Mentors programme. She provides the UTC with dedicated university students who work closely with our emerging readers, offering encouragement, patience and positive role modelling.

  The mentors Lucia selects are always carefully matched to the needs of our young people. They arrive with energy, warmth and a genuine belief that every student can grow in confidence as a reader. Their impact is clear to see. For some of our most reluctant readers, Friday afternoon reading sessions have become something they not only take part in, but actively look forward to.

  That transformation does not happen by chance. It reflects Lucia's care, judgement and commitment to getting the right people in front of our students. Through her work, she is helping young people build confidence, develop skills and discover that reading can be enjoyable, meaningful and rewarding.

  Lucia, thank you for the difference you make to our students, our staff and our wider UTC community.

• Stephanie Bower
  Student Progress Award: Class Progress (secondary)
  Stephanie Bower

  Stephanie is receiving this award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to learner progress. Last year, Stephanie's GCSE Chemistry class achieved exceptional outcomes, exceeding national benchmarks at all thresholds, with every student achieving above their target outcomes. An impressive 76% of students secured the highest grades, with six students achieving the top possible Grade 9.

  The class demonstrated exceptional progress, with students making nearly two grades of indicative progress on average from their estimated outcomes. Stephanie's commitment to ensuring success for every learner is reflected in the fact that all students made progress, including those with SEND and pupil premium backgrounds. Her dedication, expertise, and high expectations have had a significant impact on the achievements of her students.

• Jayne Hornby
  Student Progress Award: Class Progress (primary)
  Jayne Hornby

  Jayne has done a remarkable job as the teacher of Year 6 at Sudell. She took over the class at very short notice in September of 2024 and immediately adjusted not only to a whole new class, but a whole new curriculum of ‘reading into writing' too. She knew there was pressure on her to turn around some less than good results from previous years and she carried that burden of expectation for the whole year, alongside her excellent teaching assistant.

  I would struggle to think of anyone across our whole organisation who had to adapt more rapidly or to a greater amount of change in a very short period of time. Her teaching load took a 100% change. She had to learn a new curriculum and implement it ahead of the rest of the Sudell team. She engaged with new expectations around tracking progress. She engaged with a very enthusiastic consultant throughout the year and this meant that everything she did was seen and commented on as we worked together to gain the improvements our pupils deserved.

  Jayne demonstrated – quite frankly – all of the Aldridge Attributes! I know they are for our learners but all I can say is that Jayne was a supreme role model in each of them. She proved herself to be a problem-solver and a risk-taker. She was creative and determined. She most definitely played more than her part in teamwork and her passion must have been the thing that got her through at the points it was hardest to keep going.

  I'm thrilled to say that Jayne's hard work paid off and this was best reflected by the letter we received from the Secretary of State for Education in the autumn stating that disadvantage Year 6 pupils at Sudell had performed better than most across the whole country!

  Jayne, I'm supremely grateful to you for your majestic work and I congratulate you on the success you have achieved.

• Alex Kelly
  Student Progress Award: Department
  Alex Kelly

  Under the leadership of Alex Kelly, the Level 3 Game Design provision at UTC MediaCity has delivered outstanding student progress and achievement. Across the department, students have secured exceptional outcomes, reflecting the high expectations, strong curriculum design and relentless commitment to student success that Alex and his team bring every day.

  Whilst the overall performance of Level 3 Creative Media has been exceptionally strong, the results achieved in Games Design stand out as particularly impressive. Nearly half of all students achieved the highest possible grade profile of Triple Distinction*, with the average grade across the cohort reaching D*D*D. No student achieved less than a triple Distinction. These outcomes are remarkable and place students in an exceptionally strong position for progression into higher education, apprenticeships and industry careers.

  However, what makes this award especially deserved is that these results are not the product of one subject area alone. Alex has led a department culture where excellence is expected across the board. The strength of outcomes demonstrates the collective expertise, collaboration and commitment of the entire team. Alex has successfully brought together talented specialists around a shared vision of high-quality technical education, ensuring that students benefit from industry relevant learning experiences and consistently ambitious teaching.

  As Strategic Lead for Post-16 Provision and Director of Games Design & IT, Alex combines strategic leadership with a deep understanding of curriculum and student progression. His leadership has helped create a culture where students are challenged, supported and inspired to achieve beyond expectations. Just as importantly, he has developed and empowered a team whose collective work has transformed outcomes for young people.

  This award recognises not only exceptional results, but also exceptional leadership. Alex has demonstrated what can be achieved when expertise, ambition and teamwork come together. 

• Benjamin Abbey
  Learners' Choice
  Benjamin Abbey

  I'm just going to read what one of our learner's said about Mr Abbey:

  “I am nominating Mr Abbey because he is a good teacher, he teaches maths really well explaining everything to people that need help and he also is very nice to everyone. Also gives sweets!”

  And here's what I think that learner was telling us. They were saying that as a maths teacher, Mr Abbey has a real talent for explaining things clearly and making sure students feel supported when they need help. Maths can be a challenging subject, but Mr Abbey helps to make it feel more manageable. He takes the time to go through problems properly, encourages students to keep trying, and makes sure that no one feels left behind.

  What also stands out is the way he treats people. He is kind, approachable and respectful to everyone, creating a classroom where students feel comfortable asking questions and giving things a go. That combination of strong teaching and genuine kindness makes a lasting difference.

  And, as the nomination very honestly adds, he also gives sweets - which may not be the only reason students appreciate him, but it certainly does not hurt!

  Mr Abbey, thank you for being such a supportive, thoughtful and much-valued teacher.

• Shannon Banks
  Unsung Hero Award
  Shannon Banks

  Shannon was nominated for the extraordinary care, consistency and commitment she shows to students at BACA with SEND and Education, Health and Care Plans.

  Based in the Lighthouse, Shannon is a trusted adult for a large number of students and families. She provides the calm reassurance, structure and encouragement that many young people need to feel safe, settled and ready for the school day. At the moment, she supports 15 students with individual one-to-one meet and greets, helping them transition into the academy each morning with confidence.

  That work requires patience, empathy and deep understanding. Shannon knows her students well, recognises what each individual needs, and helps remove barriers before the day has even begun. Her impact is felt not only by students, but also by their families, who know their children are being supported by someone they trust.

  Families have described Shannon as the heartbeat of the academy - and it is easy to see why. Shannon, thank you for the kindness, dedication and steady care you bring to BACA every day.

• DAES Admin Team - Sue, Marcos and Joanne
  Team of the Year
  DAES Admin Team - Sue, Marcos and Joanne

  Sue, Marcos and Joannehave made an outstanding contribution to the school during their first year in their respective roles. As Exams Officer and GDPR Lead, Receptionist and Administrative Support, and Office Manager and Leader of the Administration Team, they have quickly become an integral part of the school community.

  Together, they have gone above and beyond in every aspect of their work, always placing students at the heart of their decision-making. They have embraced the challenges of new roles with professionalism, resilience, and determination, supporting one another and working collaboratively to ensure the smooth running of the school.

  Their attention to detail is exceptional, and they consistently provide a welcoming, efficient, and highly professional service to students, parents, staff, and visitors. Whether working behind the scenes or serving as the public face of the school, they demonstrate unwavering commitment, care, and integrity.

  Quite simply, they are the glue that holds many aspects of the school together. Their dedication, teamwork, and willingness to go the extra mile make them an invaluable asset to both the local school community and the wider Aldridge family. Their impact is felt every day through the support they provide, the relationships they build, and the high standards they uphold. They are truly deserving of recognition for the difference they make to our school.

• Wayne Hartley
  Award for Special Endeavour
  Wayne Hartley

  And while we're sorry that Wayne isn't able to make it tonight- though I would say that he'd probably not want to walk up here to receive this award because he isn't a man for the limelight. Wayne has done the most startling thing over his years at Vale – and he's done it without making a song and a dance about it. Wayne has worked with the Vale community to raise over £100,000 for Derian House, the children's hospice close to Darwen Vale High School. That would be an impressive feat for any human being but Wayne has done this taking the Vale community with him. He has given his time every week to train both students and staff to prepare them for the annual circuit training event. He sets up GoFundMe pages in his own time and works closely with students to help them maximise their fundraising efforts.

  Wayne sets the whole Aldridge community an example as someone who genuinely puts others before himself, seeing the absolute value of caring for others, particularly those with the greatest needs.

  He has been a wonderful example to cohort after cohort of learners passing through Vale – imagine the number of lives he has impacted – perhaps 16,000? - as he's shown learners what it looks like to volunteer, to care, to put others first.

  Wayne has done all of this in addition to being a highly-regarded Maths teacher at Vale and we're sad to be saying goodbye to him this summer as he retires. We think he's a very fitting winner of a special award for endeavour.

• Nicky Hill
  CEO's Award
  Nicky Hill

  When the panel met to judge all the awards, there was a single-minded view around the table that Nicky should be recognised for her work. Nicky is a regular nominee through our Aldridge Appreciates programme and is seen by learners and colleagues alike as a key member of the Media City team, who makes a transformational difference to the lives of some of the most fragile members of their community.

   

  When I think personally of some of the toughest experiences the Media City community have faced together in recent years, I encountered Nicky at the heart of them – going the extra mile with grieving parents, even as she addressed her own grief at the same time.

  A recent nomination for Nicky talked about the work she has done with a particular tutor group this year – the students most at risk of becoming NEET. Nicky completed college applications with them, supporting them with auditions and presentations. She mentored them on a daily basis and every single one of those learners accessed their GCSE exams and attended the Prom. Her work was described as the epitome of levelling the playing field and leaving no one behind.

   

  Why have I chosen to make this award to Nicky? Well, a learner said “she is the one who has always supported me the most. She has been there when I was angry, sad or happy, she always listens and always supports me.” I see in Nicky someone who understands what it takes to forget yourself in order to meet the needs of others – the freedom of self-forgetfulness. I see in her someone who works with the utmost professionalism, day in day out, consistently listening, caring unconditionally without ever lowering her standard or her expectations. I see in her a role model as we move into our nurture work together in the months ahead. I think that if the way Nicky behaved was the way that every encounter took place across our estate day in and day out, our work would be largely done.

   

  I'm proud to work with Nicky and to be part of her team. She sets the bar for all who follow her. Congratulations Nicky.