Andrea Arlidge, chief executive of Futura, a school multi-academy trust (MAT) in Bath and Wells, has been honoured with a Silver Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Pearson National Teaching Awards.
Suzanne McDonald, Assistant Director School Organisation, who was one of the stakeholders interviewed by a panel during the process on behalf of the diocese said, " this is an prestigious award for Andrea personally and for the trust she represents, having been through the process I appreciate how rigorous it is to receive this award. Futura is one of our mixed multi academy trusts and shows how we can work together through trusts to improve the outcomes of the children and young people we serve."
Andrea, who will retire this summer after a varied 41-year career working with pupils across the 2-19 age range, has always had a passion for inclusion and a desire to improve life chances for children and young people.
She said: “My greatest memories are of the amazing things pupils can do when they are inspired and encouraged. A key role for schools is to give children opportunities and experiences they will remember for the rest of their lives.”
Andrea is one of 102 deserving teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff and institutions named as silver winners in this year’s awards. They will now be in the running for the Gold Award, which will be announced at a ceremony later in the year.
She was presented with her award by Futura’s chairman Malcolm Broad on National Thank a Teacher Day, an event that celebrates the education community and all those who work in it.
Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, said: “The work and devotion of all of those who play a role in educating young people is phenomenal. Not only do they play a vital role in shaping minds inside the classroom, often they continue to encourage, support, motivate and inspire beyond. That’s why it is important for us to take a moment on this National Thank a Teacher Day to recognise their efforts.
“I am also thrilled to be able to congratulate this year’s Silver Award winners and recognise the amazing contributions and commitment they have shown is shaping the lives of the next generation – thank you!”