Bury Education Awards judges prepare to celebrate education excellence

Judging is now under way for the inaugural Bury Education Awards, launched by Bury Council in partnership with the Bury Times to celebrate the outstanding contribution of schools, educational settings, staff, governors and young people across the borough.

The awards recognise excellence across 11 categories:

• Jennifer Lowe Early Years Provider of the Year Award
• Bury Governor of the Year Award
• Bury Headteacher of the Year Award
• Bury Lifetime Achievement Award
• Bury Pupil of the Year Award
• Bury Post-16 Young Person of the Year Award
• Bury School of the Year Award
• Bury Special School of the Year Award
• Bury Teacher of the Year Award
• Bury Teaching Assistant of the Year Award
• Bury Excellence in Educational Support Award

The Jennifer Lowe Early Years Provider of the Year Award has been named in recognition of Jennifer's contribution to early years education in Bury, ensuring her legacy continues through the celebration of excellence in the sector. Jennifer was a highly respected early years practitioner connected with Hoyle Nursery School in Bury who sadly passed away in 2025.

Successful nominees will be notified of their achievement during the week beginning 16 November 2026, when a Bury Times film crew will visit winning settings for surprise presentations alongside council representatives and dignitaries.

The awards will also be showcased through a special winners' film on Bury Times social media channels, as well as a dedicated pull-out feature highlighting the stories and achievements of all winners.

Councillor Sandra Walmsley, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said:

"The Bury Education Awards, delivered by Bury Council in partnership with the Bury Times, are a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on the people and organisations who make a real difference to children and young people's lives every day. We have received an impressive range of nominations, reflecting the talent, commitment and care that exists across our education community. It is important that we recognise and celebrate these achievements, and I would like to thank everyone who took the time to submit a nomination."

Plans are already being explored to build on the success of the awards in 2027, with the ambition of securing a business sponsor to support a gala awards evening celebrating the very best of education in Bury.

Any business interested in sponsorship of a future event should contact: Jonathan.Smith@localiq.co.uk

The Bury Education Awards reflect the ambitions of Bury's LET'S Do It! strategy by celebrating the collaboration, ambition and shared commitment that help shape a brighter future for Bury and its communities.