Education superstars shine bright at Teach Portsmouth Awards 2025
Portsmouth's superstar educators took centre stage at the Teach Portsmouth Awards 2025 as school and college staff were recognised at Portsmouth Guildhall on Thursday 12 June 2025.
Over 200 attendees gathered to celebrate the achievements of Portsmouth's education community, hosted by Ashley Howard, headteacher at Mayfield School, and Zoe Killick, headteacher at St Paul's Catholic School and Nursery. The evening saw winners announced across 11 award categories, recognising outstanding contributions to teaching and learning in the city.
In addition to the award winners, individuals who have dedicated 20 years or more to working in Portsmouth's education settings were honoured for their long service. Each recipient received a commemorative trophy in recognition of their commitment.
The Teach Portsmouth Awards provide a platform to celebrate those who go above and beyond for children, young people, and families. The event also shines a spotlight on the innovative strategies and initiatives that are making a real difference in classrooms across the city.
Councillor Nick Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:
"The Teach Portsmouth Awards is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate excellence in education, highlight best practice, and recognise the incredible staff who make a real difference to the lives of children and young people.
"This year, we placed a special emphasis on community engagement, inviting parents and carers to nominate staff. Their overwhelming response led to a record number of entries in the people's choice category. Alongside this, senior school leaders shared powerful stories of colleagues going above and beyond to support their communities."
Councillor Nick Dorrington
Two new categories were introduced to recognise different initiatives that enable pupils to thrive. The volunteer award category showcased individuals who give their time for free using their own life experiences to support pupils in different ways. The community award highlighted partnership working between schools, colleges and other organisations.
Andrew Beecher won the volunteer award supporting pupils in gardening club at Admiral Lord Nelson School. The judges said that he enables pupils to learn new life skills and helps foster self-belief. Andrew said:
"I was blown away when I was nominated as it was unexpected. The journey from being shortlisted to winning has been a rollercoaster ride but one I have enjoyed immensely.
"Winning the award is also recognition for the pupils I work with. Their efforts are my successes too. I would like to thank everyone who put me forward for the award - it has given me a real boost."
Andrew Beecher
Sharon Hartt and Jasmine Hewett were joint winners for the wellbeing award for their work supporting families who have experienced bereavement. As a result of their efforts, Highbury Primary School is one of three schools in Hampshire to be awarded 'Simon Says Champion Status.'
The shortlisting panel said their efforts to train staff to help bereaved families was inspirational. Sharon said:
"It was an honour to win the award on the night. Wellbeing in schools has become more important.
"Our work as Simon Says Champions has been a collaborative effort with staff across the school. Winning the award showcases the impact this is having across our community."
Sharon Hartt
Meet our superstar winners
The winners in 11 award categories have now been revealed on the Teach Portsmouth website. For more information, visit the Teach Portsmouth Awards 2025 page today.
Callum Murphy