The Bolton News, in association with Bolton Council, is delighted to announce the return of the Education Awards for 2022.

After what has been an incredibly tough period for schools and colleges across the area as a result of the pandemic, we believe it’s essential to celebrate everything fantastic about schooling in Bolton.

Now more than ever we need to highlight the brilliant work carried out by the borough’s dedicated teachers and everyone involved in education in the area, as well as shining a spotlight on innovation and best practice.

The Bolton News Education Awards 2022 aims to recognise the outstanding achievements of pupils and students, including those who may have overcome the odds or battled adversity during the last 12 months to succeed in their studies or extracurricular activities.

Children and teachers, support staff and students, headteachers and lecturers will be honoured in a special winners’ supplement in The Bolton News on Thursday, November 17 as well as being featured in articles on our website.

ALSO READ: Winners of The Bolton News Education Awards 2021

Entries for the awards, of which Bolton Council is the headline sponsor, are now open. Please email the editor Richard Duggan (richard.duggan@newsquest.co.uk) if you have any enquiries or would like to request an application form.

All schools are welcome to enter as long as they are based in the borough. Entries are invited from teachers, parents, governors, pupils and anyone with knowledge of a particular school or education establishment. Individuals or institutions can enter more than one category, but this should be made clear when submitting entries. The deadline for entering the awards is Friday, October 28.

There are seven awards up for grabs this year:

Pupil of the Year 

This award will go to a person who has achieved something beyond expectations in education over the last 12 months. This will not necessarily be about the highest academic achiever - it could be about the way an individual has developed themselves personally, through sheer determination to do better.

They will have applied themselves to every task and set a  good example for other students. They’ll have a fun-loving personality and get along with teachers whilst being respectful. The winner should have a sense of responsibility and can be trusted while playing an active role in all areas of school life and will always be willing to lend a hand.

Teaching Assistant of the Year

Do you know a teaching assistant who raises the aspirations of pupils and helps them to reach new heights? The award will go to a teaching assistant who always gives exceptional service and makes a real difference to pupils’ learning.

New Teacher of the Year

This category celebrates the achievements of those who are new to the profession, for example, a newly-qualified teacher. Entrants should have been in education for no more than three years.

ALSO READ: Winners of Build Back Bolton Business Awards 2022 

Teacher of the Year

This award will recognise a teacher who inspires and engages students to fulfil their potential and makes an exceptional contribution to the life of their school.

Head Teacher of the Year - Sponsored by Surveyroof

The Bolton News: Head Teacher of the Year Award is sponsored by SurveyroofHead Teacher of the Year Award is sponsored by Surveyroof (Image: Surveyroof)

Does this head teacher provide outstanding leadership with a clear and compelling vision for success? This award will go to an inspirational head teacher who has shown exceptional leadership, management, teaching skills and commitment to their school or college.

School of the Year - Sponsored by Bolton Council

This will be awarded to the school which, in the opinion of the judges, has had an outstanding academic year. This may be improvements in attendance levels, parent engagement or examination results. You may have made or built upon partnerships in the local or business community, achieved new green credentials, or achieved competition success.

Lifetime Achievement Award - Sponsored by Bolton Council

The Bolton News: Bolton Council is the headline sponsor and is also sponsoring two awardsBolton Council is the headline sponsor and is also sponsoring two awards

This award is for a member of the school community who has shown a commitment to the sector over many years. It could be for a leader,  teacher or member of support staff. Evidence must be provided of how the lives of pupils have been affected by their work.

If you would like to be a sponsor of these awards please contact Darren Hayes on 07920 765192.