LCI Deputy Director, Dr Penny Ding, returns as judge for this year’s Educate Awards

Returning as a judge for this year’s Educate Awards 2025, Dr Penny Ding presented this year’s prize for Most Inspirational Secondary School.

Twenty-one inspirational schools, colleges, and multi-academy trusts from across the North West were recognised at the Educate Awards on Friday, 14 November.

In partnership with ASL Group, the glittering ceremony took place at Liverpool Cathedral, welcoming over 600 guests. The evening was hosted by broadcaster Simon ‘Rossie’ Ross.

As a judge, our LCI Deputy Director assessed over seventy submissions in six categories of awards, covering Outstanding School Library, Outstanding Arts in Primary, Outstanding Arts in Secondary, Community Partnership, Teacher of the Year, and Most Inspirational Multi-Academy Trust.

Congratulations to all the winners, including the award for Most Inspirational Secondary School. Winner: Burnage Academy for Boys, Manchester. Runner-up: Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School, Liverpool.

“It was a delight to serve as a judge for the prestigious Educate Awards, and I was immensely impressed by the amount of work, the quality, and the richness of what the schools have achieved. The winners were incredible, and my warmest congratulations to them. Thank you so much for giving our young people such a wonderful experience. Experiences like these can change their lives and help shape them into thoughtful, capable members of our society.” Dr Penny Ding

Alt text: Dr Penny Ding presenting the award at the Educate Awards 2025

What are the Educate Awards?

Now in its fourteenth year, the Educate Awards features twenty-one diverse categories and shines a spotlight on all aspects of education from sports and arts to literacy and the environment.

The shortlist recognises inspiring teachers, dedicated support staff and strategic leadership teams who continue to make a meaningful difference in their communities.

As the largest and most prestigious education awards in the region, the Educate Awards bring together schools, colleges and multi-academy trusts from Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside for a night of celebration and recognition.

“We’re incredibly proud that the Educate Awards continue to shine a light on the remarkable achievements of schools and colleges across the region. The dedication, creativity and care shown by staff and students never fails to inspire us. Entries for the 2026 awards will open in February, and we encourage schools, colleges and multi-academy trusts of all kinds to get involved.” Kim O’Brien (CPMM Media Group)