The clock is ticking to get your entries and nominations in for the first ever East Anglian Daily Times Suffolk Education Awards, which aim to help students, staff and education providers shout about what makes them great.
The Overall Education Hero of the Year award is the top accolade to be achieved in these awards. As a non-entry category, the winner will be selected from all other category winners by the judges and will be making an impact on not only their school but also the wider community.
Professor Mohammad Dastbaz is deputy vice-chancellor at the University of Suffolk, which is sponsoring the Overall Education Hero of the Year award and is our headline sponsor, too. We spoke to him about why it’s so important to celebrate the hard work of Suffolk’s educators.
What are the benefits of being educated in Suffolk?
Suffolk is home to high-quality education providers. Staff are dedicated to ensuring that young people learn the skills they need to succeed and progress into careers and the county’s diverse make-up is also ideal for opportunities to link up with prominent employers, or learn about the environment.
What are your hopes for the future of education in Suffolk?
For learners to be given the opportunities to succeed regardless of their background and circumstances, and for providers to be recognised for their hard work and given the resources they need to ensure positive outcomes for Suffolk’s young people.
What qualities are you looking for in this category?
We will be looking for individuals who go above and beyond; for their commitment to help learners succeed; and to be inspired by the transformational impact good teaching has on learners.
Why is it important to celebrate our education heroes?
They are often under-appreciated for the vital work they do, very much being the embodiment of the phrase ‘unsung heroes’.
Their work is crucial in helping young people succeed in life and work, helping shape learners in their formative years and addressing the broader skills gaps.
The deadline for entries to the Suffolk Education Awards is Sunday, August 6. To find out more visit suffolkeduawards.co.uk
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