Portsmouth’s classroom heroes shortlisted in education awards

Portsmouth parents and carers will have the chance to recognise the work of early years education staff and school governors for the first time.

The popular Teach Portsmouth Awards for staff in schools and colleges returns for 2023 with brand new categories for early years professionals and governors.

The new awards sit alongside a host of existing categories recognising the contribution of education professionals who have gone above and beyond for children and young people in nurseries, schools and colleges.

All nominations are reviewed by a panel of education professionals. Those shortlisted will be invited to the Teach Portsmouth Awards ceremony, hosted by Lucy Ambache, radio presenter and broadcaster at Nation Radio.

Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:

“The Teach Portsmouth Awards is one of my favourite events of the year as it gives us a chance to celebrate the incredible efforts of teachers, support teams and head teachers across the city.

“The last couple of years have been tough in education. The cost of living continues to impact our families and schools and colleges continue to step up to support them in so many ways. Everyone in education has played a key role in helping our community and deserve recognition for their work. I would like to thank every single person for their efforts to support those who need it most.”

Catherine Holloway, who is a manager at Manor Infant School and Nursery has been shortlisted in the early years and childcare award category.

She has worked there for several years and was nominated by parents and carers for the support she gives children. In particular, going above and beyond to ensure children could still attend nursery when the site’s heating system failed.

Catherine said:

“When I found out I was put forward for an award, I was shocked. No one has ever done that for me before – it was such a lovely gesture. To then find out I’ve been shortlisted is incredible. It’s really nice being recognised. I love my job – it is challenging but super rewarding.”

Governors have also been highlighted in this year’s shortlist for the first time. This voluntary position sees people give up their own time, to support schools and colleges and their leadership teams by sharing their own experiences to improve outcomes for pupils.

Phil Harris-Bridge who is chair of governors at Castle View Academy has worked at the school for the last five years. He has been shortlisted for the governor’s award in recognition for his work which was highlighted in a recent Ofsted inspection.

Phil said:

“It’s an amazing feeling being recognised for what you do. If you have the time to volunteer, becoming a govenor is so worthwhile. You can use your own life experiences to help schools and their students.”

The winners will be announced at the Teach Portsmouth Awards on Thursday 29 June at Portsmouth Guildhall. To view the shortlist, visit: teachportsmouth.co.uk/awards