Children, young people and staff from Halton’s schools and colleges came together last week for a special awards evening held to celebrate their many and varied achievements.
Halton Borough Council’s brand new Education Awards – Aiming High – took place at Cronton Playhouse within Cronton Sixth Form College to recognise the hard work, dedication and passion of the borough’s educators, support teams, students and all those who form part of our education community.
Welcoming everyone to the ceremony, the Mayor of Halton, Cllr Kevan Wainwright, said: “We’ve called our awards, the Aiming High awards, because in Halton that’s exactly what we are doing. Halton’s children and young people are our pride, and our future, and our hope is that every single child in the borough has the opportunity to reach their full potential and that they grow up safe, happy, healthy and succeeding.”
During the evening, guests were treated to performances from students of Cavendish High Academy, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic High School and Cronton Sixth Form College.
Awards were given I0 categories with nominations coming from schools and colleges across the borough.
The winners were:
Inspirational Teacher of the Year: Recognises individuals who have not only excelled in their teaching but have also inspired, motivated, and positively impacted the lives of countless students
Winner: Rachel Prescott, Wade Deacon High School (pictured with Cllr Mike Wharton, Leader of the Council)
Those who nominated Rachel say she embodies the true spirit of education. Through her unwavering commitment, innovative teaching methods, and genuine care for her students, Miss Prescott has created an environment where learning thrives and dreams are nurtured. Her students describe her as amazing, inspiring, a great listener and funny.
Inspirational Young Person of the Year: Celebrates the remarkable achievements and contributions of some really amazing young people. Whether through volunteering, advocating for important causes, showing strength through adversity, they have touched the lives of many and set an example for all of us
Winner: Elayna Brownlow, The Grange Academy (pictured with Stephen Young, Chief Executive)
Elayna is described as being selfless and having a caring attitude towards others, as well as always being bright and cheery with a positive attitude towards school.
Support Star of the Year: Recognises individuals whose dedication, hard work, and unwavering support have made a significant impact on their school community.
Winner: Sarah Geraghty, The Brow Community Primary School (pictured with Cllr Tom McInerney, Executive Board Member for Children, Young People and Families).
Sarah is described as a ‘ray of light’, someone who is selfless, provides vital support andwhose passion for nurturing, supporting and advocating for those who need it most, shines from her, as she goes above and beyond daily.
Diversity, Collaboration and Inclusion: Celebrates the exceptional educators who have made significant strides in promoting diversity, fostering collaboration, and ensuring inclusion within our school community
Winner: Jane Pickering, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic High School (pictured with Zoe Fearon, Executive Director of Children’s Services)
Jane is described by one parent as amazing – as someone who makes education for the neuro diverse child better. She’s someone who always goes above and beyond to support her students and their families and never gives up in her quest to get the very best outcomes. She’s patient, understanding, doesn’t judge, and treats everyone with dignity.
Team of the Year: Honours a group of people who have demonstrated exceptional teamwork, collaboration, and commitment to their school’s mission and values. Their collective efforts set a shining example for our entire school community.
Winner: Halton Lodge Support Staff Team, Halton Lodge Primary School (pictured with Mary Murphy, Principal of Riverside College and Cronton Sixth Form College)
The winning team goes above and beyond to support their children and build great relationships with families. They are working tirelessly to create a positive and nurturing environment and take the time to make sure every child knows they are valued, loved and listened to.
Young Entrepreneur: Celebrates the innovative spirit and remarkable achievements of young entrepreneurs who are shaping the future with their creativity and determination
Winner: Joshua Morrison, The Grange Academy (pictured with Hugh O’Connor, Merseylink Ltd)
Joshua is described as ‘not just your average teenager’ who inspires everyone around them. His dedication, hard work, and infectious passion have set Joshua apart as a true leader.
Sport Personality: Celebrates the outstanding achievements of young athletes who have demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and sportsmanship. The award recognises those who have made significant contributions to their sport and have inspired others through their performances and commitment. We were delighted that this award was presented by a home-grown champion, multi-medal winning Special Olympics star, and former Riverside College student, Stephanie Gott.
Winner: Jessica Cox, The Brow Community Primary School (pictured with Stephanie Gott)
Jessica is described as an inspiration and fantastic role model to other girls and young women. She is super-talented and a superstar in the making in her chosen sport of grass track and speedway racing. Jessica is tenacious, resilient, someone with an amazing positive attitude, who always gives it 100%.
Outstanding Citizenship: Recognises young people who have demonstrated exceptional civic responsibility, community involvement, and a commitment to making a positive impact. The award celebrates those who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to contribute to their community and exemplify the values of good citizenship.
Winner: Lincoln Connolly, St Berteline’s Church of England Primary School (pictured with Professor Janet Lord – Deputy Pro-Vice Chancellor of Manchester Metropolitan University)
Lincoln has been raising awareness and tirelessly fund raising to ensure that every primary school in Runcorn has access to a potentially life-saving LifeVac machine. Those nominating Lincoln wanted to highlight his thoughtfulness and kindness alongside his commitment and dedication.
Incredible Achievement: A celebration of the perseverance, dedication, bravery and the indomitable human spirit shown by our young people.
Winner: Bobby Dow, The Brow Community Primary School (pictured with The Mayor of Halton, Cllr Kevan Wainwright)
Bobby faced a daunting and dangerous situation with remarkable bravery.
His actions not only saved lives but he’s inspiring others to act with courage and integrity. This young hero’s story is a powerful reminder that true bravery knows no age.
Lifetime Achievement: Celebrates those whose teaching career has been marked by unwavering dedication, exceptional teaching, and a lasting impact on countless students. All the nominees have spent their career inspiring, mentoring, and guiding students, leaving an indelible mark on their lives and on the field of education. Their passion for teaching and commitment to excellence have set a high standard for all educators to follow.
Winner: Anne Bate, St Bede’s Catholic Junior School pictured with The Mayor of Halton, Cllr Kevan Wainwright)
Anne has shown tireless commitment to supporting students with special educational needs and disabilities, assisting with behaviour management, and providing care both in the classroom and beyond. Anne’s role extended far beyond the boundaries of traditional classroom duties, and her positive influence has been felt in schools across the UK and abroad during overseas field trips.
Anne has not only helped students academically but has also shaped their sense of self-worth, confidence, and resilience. It is clear that Anne has made an extraordinary difference in the lives of countless students and, as she steps into retirement, it is only fitting that Anne be recognised with an award that reflects the incredible contributions she has made over the years.
Cllr Tom McInerney, the Council’s Executive Board Member for Children, Young People and Families, said:
“A huge congratulations to all nominees on their outstanding achievements. It was a fantastic evening, and so heartwarming to hear the stories of the pupils, teachers and staff in Halton who make such an amazing contribution to the lives of others.
“A special thank you to Cronton Sixth Form College for hosting the awards and Merseylink Limited (Mersey Gateway) for their generous support in making these awards possible.”