categories & criteria

SCHOOL CATEGORIES

The winners are decided by our expert judging panel.

Primary School of the Year

Recognising a primary school that has made a difference to the learning and lives of its pupils through high-quality teaching, outstanding pastoral care, or effective whole-school practice.

Secondary School of the Year

Recognising a secondary school that has made a difference to the learning and lives of its pupils through high-quality teaching, outstanding pastoral care, or effective whole-school practice.

Independent School of the Year

Recognising an independent school that has made a difference to the learning and lives of its pupils through high-quality teaching, outstanding pastoral care, or effective whole-school practice.

Outstanding Multi Academy Trust

Celebrating a Multi Academy Trust that has demonstrated strong leadership across its schools, creating opportunities for both pupils and staff to thrive and succeed.

Best Use of Technology / ICT in School

Celebrating a school that has used technology effectively to enhance teaching, improve pupil outcomes, and support more effective classroom practice.

Creative School of the Year

Sponsored by STAEDTLER

Recognising a school that embraces creativity and innovation to deliver engaging teaching and learning, thinking outside the box to inspire pupils and staff.

Overall School of the Year

Awarding a school that excels across all areas, demonstrating outstanding teaching, strong leadership, and a genuine commitment to the wellbeing and success of its pupils and staff.

NEW FOR 2026: Pupil Mental Health Initiative of the Year

Recognising a school or team that has developed a meaningful initiative to support pupil mental health and achieve positive outcomes, be that for the whole school or a specific group.

PEOPLE CATEGORIES (IN SCHOOLS)

The winners are decided by our expert judging panel

STEM Teacher of the Year

Recognising an individual who has delivered outstanding teaching in STEM subjects, inspiring pupils and driving strong learning outcomes.

New Teacher of the Year

Celebrating an NQT (within their first two years in post) who has embraced the culture of their school and made a meaningful impact on the pupils they teach.

Headteacher of the Year

Sponsored by Bett UK

Recognising a headteacher who leads with vision and integrity, inspiring pupils and staff while driving excellence across all areas of school life.

Business Manager / Bursar of the Year

Celebrating a school business professional who has maximised resources and budgets to support effective learning and the smooth running of the school.

Community Champion

Recognising a teacher who makes a positive impact beyond the classroom through their commitment to community engagement, inclusivity, enrichment activities, or charitable work.

Subject Lead of the Year 

Recognising an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership within their subject, driving high standards in teaching and learning.

SENCO of the Year

Celebrating a SENCO or SEND team that has made a significant difference to pupil outcomes through effective leadership, support, and inclusive practice.

SUPPLIER CATEGORIES

The majority of these winners will be decided by the schools/teachers who work with the products and services day in day out, via our secure online voting system.

Brands entered in these categories must be available to UK and ROI markets and meet the industry standard for quality and safety.

Wellbeing Resource or Support of the Year

Recognising resources or services that help schools effectively support the mental health and wellbeing of pupils and staff.

HR/Finance/Payroll Supplier of the Year

Awarding excellence in the delivery of essential HR, finance, and payroll services that keep schools running smoothly behind the scenes.

School Recruitment Support Company of the Year

Recognising excellence in supporting schools with their recruitment needs, helping them attract, appoint, and retain high-quality staff.

Catering Supplier of the Year

Celebrating the delivery of nutritious, high-quality food alongside outstanding service, ensuring schools can meet the needs of their pupils on time and on budget.

Overall Supplier of the Year

Awarding the company that has gone above and beyond to support schools in providing a safe, effective, and enjoyable learning environment.

SEND Resources Supplier of the Year

Recognising the delivery of stand-out resources and services which support schools in improving outcomes for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.

Best Supplier of ICT Equipment (Physical Products)

Celebrating excellence in the provision of high-quality classroom technology, from whiteboards, tablets, screens and computers to network and connectivity hardware, supporting effective teaching and learning.

NEW FOR 2026: Best Supplier of MIS

Recognising excellence in the delivery of Management Information Systems that enable schools to effectively manage data, streamline operations, and improve decision-making.

NEW FOR 2026: Best Supplier in Online Safety and Cyber Security

Awarding innovative and effective online safety and cyber security solutions which work to protect schools, staff, and pupils in an increasingly digital learning environment.

NEW FOR 2026: Best All-Round Supplier of ICT Support

Celebrating outstanding ICT support services that keep schools’ technology running smoothly and securely, including network and IT infrastructure management, server management, telephony, and hardware and software support.

NEW FOR 2026: Flooring Supplier of the Year

Awarding the delivery of high-quality hard and soft flooring solutions tailored to educational environments, combining functionality, aesthetics, and value for money.

NEW FOR 2026: Modular Building Supplier of the Year

Recognising excellence in the design, supply, and installation of modular buildings that provide flexible, innovative, and cost-effective learning and support spaces for schools.

NEW FOR 2026: Indoor or Outdoor Furniture Supplier of the Year

Awarding the provision of high-quality furniture and equipment for classrooms and outdoor spaces, including desks, seating, cupboards, playground equipment, fencing and more.

New Start Up Business of the Year

The only supplier category that goes to our judging panel.
Celebrating an emerging business (operating for five years or fewer) that is already making an impact, demonstrating innovation, growth, and a commitment to supporting education outcomes.

Lifetime Achievement

Now put to our expert judging panel.
Recognising an individual or organisation that has made a lasting impact on the education sector. Honouring those who have gone above and beyond to support schools and drive positive change. The award acknowledges the winner’s sustained achievements during a distinguished career. Nominees should have ideally been working in the sector for at least 25 years by 2026.