Inspirational Plymouth team win national teaching award for transformative work
A team of Plymouth educators leading the Your Future programme for On Course South West have been recognised with a Silver Award for SEND and Inclusive Practice in this year's Pearson National Teaching Awards.
Chosen from thousands of nominees, they will now be in with the chance of winning the highly desired Gold Award, which will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony in London and on BBC One’s The One Show later this year.
Your Future aims to help local young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) aged 16 to 25 years into education or employment opportunities by developing a positive mindset and learning independent skills. The programme offers a structured package of employability and skills training with coaching, mentoring and residential trips to help young people build their confidence.
Since it launched in 2023, the programme has supported 90 young people with SEND in Plymouth. 92 per cent of participants have gone on to progress into employment, education or training, with 80 per cent reporting that the programme helped to improve their emotional wellbeing.
On Course South West is Plymouth City Council’s in-house adult education provider and delivers a range of courses, qualifications, apprenticeships and supported internships.
Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that the Your Future team has been recognised with this national award, highlighting the lifechanging impact they have had on young people in Plymouth.
“Helping young people with SEND to thrive, grow in confidence, and achieve their goals is at the heart of the Your Future programme and this recognition shines a light on just how powerful inclusive education can be.”
The Your Future teaching team – Vicki Pinder, Abi Gee and Lauren Parker-Smith - are one of 94 deserving teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff and institutions recognised as a silver winner in this year’s awards for the lasting impact they have on shaping the lives of young people.
The announcement follows tributes from celebrities, students and schools across the UK as they say thank you to all those who work in education to mark National Thank a Teacher Day.
Celebrating the whole education community, National Thank a Teacher Day and the Pearson National Teaching Awards are run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity established over 25 years ago to celebrate the transformative impact of education, shining a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.
Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, said: “The dedication and impact of those involved in educating young people is truly remarkable. Their influence extends well beyond the classroom - offering encouragement, inspiration, and unwavering support that can shape lives for years to come. That’s why National Thank a Teacher Day is an important opportunity to pause and celebrate all that they do.
"I’m also delighted to be able to congratulate this year’s Silver Award winners. Your passion and commitment to shaping the next generation is extraordinary. Thank you for the difference you make every single day."
Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, said: “Every day, educators across the UK go above and beyond to inspire, support, and shape the future generation. Today, we proudly recognise those making an extraordinary impact. Our Silver Award winners represent the very best of the profession, and we’re thrilled to celebrate their dedication and achievements. Congratulations to all of this year’s Silver winners!”
For more information about the Your Future programme in Plymouth, please click here.
Councillor Sally Cresswell with the Your Future Team and Your Future learners