At Academy Transformation Trust, we know that great schools are built by great people. On Thursday 2nd July 2026, we were proud to host our first Staff Excellence Awards, an evening dedicated to recognising the exceptional individuals and teams who make a difference to the lives of children and young people every day.

Bringing together over 200 colleagues, Trustees and valued partners at a venue in Corby, this event allowed us to give our incredible teams the recognition they deserve.

How Does it Work?

We encouraged our staff to nominate colleagues who demonstrate our key ATT values:

We were amazed to see more than 500 nominations submitted from across the Trust, highlighting the commitment, professionalism and care shown by staff in every role. The categories are designed celebrated excellence across a wide range of educational and operational roles, reflecting the fact that transforming lives takes a collective effort.

Supporting Education Colleague of the Year

Katie Toole,

Iceni Secondary Academy

For demonstrating outstanding leadership, engaging students, and ensuring their voices are heard and valued.

Safeguarding & Wellbeing Champion of the Year

Jessica Phillips,

Caldmore Primary Academy

For working with passion and tenacity to safeguard pupils, and going above and beyond to support families.

Community Impact Award

Liz Barrett,

ATTFE College

For unwavering commitment to strengthening partnerships and creating learning opportunities beyond the classroom.

Belonging Award

Thomas Monksfield,

Pool Hayes Academy

For providing enriching extracurricular opportunities for every pupil and transforming their self confidence. Recieved by Lisa Macey, PHA Principal.

Rising Star Award

Emma O’Connell,

Kingmoor Academy

For leading by example, showing dedication, creativity, and a strong commitment to
achieving high standards for all.

Secondary Teacher of the Year

Steph Badham,

The Queen Elizabeth Academy

For creating carefully constructed lessons that awe and inspire pupils, and unwavering passion for her subject.

Unsung Hero

Barbara Hosiaux,

Phoenix Academy

For volunteering her time to support Phoenix’s pupils, showing incredible care and dedication.

Principal of the Year

Louisa Simcock,

Bristnall Hall Academy

For demonstrating exceptional leadership, modelling values and embedding a culture of integrity, ambition and care.

Enabling Education Colleague of the Year

Sharon Betts,

Pool Hayes Academy

For displaying a hardworking & dependable nature, approaching tasks with patience, sensitivity, and genuine willingness to support others.

Inclusion Award

Grace Walters,

Sutton Community Academy

For her calm, relational and highly skilled leadership, leading to measurable positive outcomes in her academy.

Early Career Teacher of the Year

Chloe Schrier,

The Nicholas Hamond Academy

For her infectious enthusiasm, overcoming challenges, and working hard to put pupils first in everything she does.

Leader of the Year

Lauren Wintrip,

The Dukeries Academy

For exceptional leadership underpinned by humility and attention to detail; unwavering dedication to her school, pupils, and community.

Primary Teacher of the Year

Stephanie Nelmes,

Kingsmoor Academy

For her genuine compassion, championing inclusivity, her collaborative approach and willingness to share expertise.

Team of the Year

Senior Leadership Team,

Pool Hayes Academy

For overcoming challenges and working together with determination to build a positive school culture.

Lifetime Contribution Award

Simon Martin MBE,

ATTFE College

For remarkable dedication over two decades of working with ATT, reflecting extraordinary service, leadership, resilience and impact.

Join a Team That Cares

At ATT, our aim is to build a culture where both pupils and staff are encouraged and supported to thrive.

Would you like to be part of a team that values you and the hard work you do every day? You can browse our vacancies here, or click here to learn more about joining our Trust.