Celebrating the Best of Greenshaw Learning Trust at the GLT Awards

Held in honour of GLT’s 10th anniversary, the ceremony brought together nominated staff from schools and the shared service to recognise who they are and what they do. “It was a joyous occasion”, says Will Smith, CEO, “not only for highlighting the extraordinary efforts of the adults across our organisation but also for hearing first-hand the impact of our work on the children in our communities.”

The event showcased stunning performances by the Orchard Park High School Signing Choir and the Crown Wood Primary School Choir, and thoughtful contributions from students at John Madejski Academy, who spoke about the changes they have witnessed since joining the Trust. These voices were a moving reminder that everything we do centres around our children, and that every role in our Trust helps shape their experience.

‘Innovative Educator’ award presenter and Head of Strategic Relations at Bromcom, Richard Clutterbuck, captured the spirit of the event: “The awards day was a glorious celebration of all that is good and great about education. Not only did we celebrate the Trust's fantastic staff, but we were also entertained and spellbound by pupils and students from the Trust's schools.”

And the winners are… 

With 45 finalists recognised, each nomination served as a powerful story of care, commitment, and creativity. Whether shaping inclusive classrooms, creating safe and inspiring learning environments, or leading quietly behind the scenes, this year’s nominees represent the very best of who we are. 

Congratulations to all our winners, whose contributions have made a real and lasting difference:

• Unsung Hero Award: Julie James, Grange Primary Academy
• New Teacher Award: Jessica Berry, Victor Seymour Infants’ School
• Wellbeing and Belonging Champion: Belinda Massey, Montpelier Primary School
• Governor who Gets It Award: Claire Smith, Park House School
• Transformation and Impact Award: Josh Burr, Blaise High School
• Inclusivity Champion: Clara Waxer, Park Hill Junior School
• Colleagues’ Choice Award: Barrie West, Crown Wood Primary School
• Sky's the Limit Award: Jack Markey, Park House School & Simone Dellimore, Wood Field Primary School
• Excellence in Special Needs Education: Sammy Nutt, Blaise High School
• Innovative Educator Award: Sally Cotzias, Green Wrythe Primary School
• Sustainability Champion: Alex Collin, Broadwater School
• Children First, Always Award: Sonia Eeles, Moat Primary Academy
• Always Learning Champion: Leah Turvey, Five Acres High School
• Inspirational Leadership Award: Olivia Harvey, Five Acres High School
• Collaboration Champion: Caroline Winchcombe, Crown Wood Primary School

It was an honour to recognise such inspiring individuals, and we are thrilled that colleagues including Carrie Cooper left feeling “very valued today” whilst Caroline Winchcombe stated “receiving an award has blown my mind!”

A symbol of shared success

More than just an awards ceremony, the event marked a milestone in the Trust’s journey: a decade of service, growth, and unwavering belief in the potential of every child. The day embodied everything GLT stands for—collaboration, ambition, inclusion, and excellence.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the event organisers, our host Joe Ambrose, presenters, performers, and the many hands behind the scenes. Thanks also to our generous sponsors: 4Matrix, Alps, Barker, Barnwood, Bromcom, G4 Contracts, Ginger Energy, J T Edwards, Leadership Edge, Neo People, Worknest, and CPE Projects, whose support helped bring this celebration to life.

As we look ahead to the future, one message rang loud and clear throughout the day: at Greenshaw Learning Trust, we are better together. And because of that, the future is bright.