Five educators receive Ambition Institute special recognition awards

The following were given special recognition awards by Ambition Institute this weekend: 

Rowena Kidd – Deputy Head Teacher at Stretford High School, Greater Manchester 

David Russell – Teacher of Mathematics at Parkside School in Bradford, West Yorkshire 

Wahid Zaman - CEO of Nurture Academies Trust, West Yorkshire 

Tara Harris - Arts Lead at The Oaks Primary School, Birmingham 

Baseema Hughes – KS1 phase leader and creative development lead at Robin Hood Academy, Birmingham 

They were all recognised at a celebration event at Manchester’s Raddison Blu Hotel on Saturday 23 March. 

Ambition Institute is a new graduate school for teachers, school leaders and system leaders, formed when two education charities merged last year. Its suite of programmes helps educators serving children from disadvantaged backgrounds to keep getting better. 

Over 50 educators congregated in Manchester in the first of two events celebrating those who have completed one of Ambition Institute’s programmes. The five educators stood out amongst the rest and were nominated for special recognition by either their peers or the people who ran the programmes. A further five will be recognised in London on Saturday 30 March.

Mr Zaman was recognised for his  commitment to his community and the children within it. His steadfastness and resilience have been inspirational to his peers.  

Mr Russell won the special Ann Brougham Award for his commitment to living to his values and having a positive impact in the work that he does every day. 

Rowena Kidd was recognised for the drive she puts into her professional development and the support she has shown to the wider network. 

Baseema Hughes was recognised for being a very special leader who is passionate, creative and someone who brings a positive attitude to any conversation. 

Tara Harris was nominated by others on the programme and was hailed as innovative, dependable and never afraid of challenge. 

They were presented with their award by ex-Apprentice star Jaz Ampaw-Farr. The event was sponsored by Pearson, a leading learning company with expertise in educational courseware and assessment, and a range of teaching and learning services powered by technology. 

Attendees were celebrating completing one of the organisation’s programmes, all of which are designed to deliver impact on pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds and ensure they have the same opportunities to succeed as their classmates. There are options for educators at every stage – from new teachers through to leaders of groups of schools. 

Melanie Renowden, interim CEO of Ambition Institute, said: “It’s an absolute honour to celebrate each and every person who has completed one of our programmes this year, and this event marks a really important day for them in their quest to keep getting better. Each of these winners has shown real commitment so it’s right that we recognise them. 

“Improving teaching and school leadership is the best way to make sure every pupil gets a great education. No other aspects of the school system have as much influence on pupil achievement, particularly the achievement of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. The commitment these educators have shown to their own professional development helps us all on the way to ensuring every child, no matter what their background, has the opportunity to thrive.” 

Rich Hickin, Pearson’s Director of Partnerships said: “Supporting teaching and school leadership is extremely important to us at Pearson. Schools are at the very heart of our communities and teachers give their all every day, every month and every year. This important event is about celebrating exceptional leaders and teachers who help students aim high and achieve their potential. Congratulations to all the winners.”