A TAMESIDE secondary school is in the running to be named one of the best of the year in a prestigious national awards.
St Damian’s RC Science College, on Lees Road in Ashton-under-Lyne, has been recognised with a Silver Award for Making a Difference – Secondary School of the Year in the Pearson National Teaching Awards.
Now after being picked from thousands of nominees, it is 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.
One of its teachers, Christina McArdle, has won a Bronze Award and its THRIVE team a Certificate of Excellence in ‘The Award for SEND and Inclusive Practice’ category.
Sheldon Logue, headteacher at St Damian’s, said: “I am extremely proud and incredibly honoured that our whole school team have been named as Silver winners in this year’s Pearson National Teaching Awards.
“As a community, we are blessed to work with such a talented group of people, and I genuinely appreciate everything they do for the children at St Damian’s.
“They truly do ‘make a difference.’ To be given this opportunity to say a huge ‘thank you’ to them for their hard work and dedication is fantastic.
“I am equally thrilled to announce that Christina is a Bronze Winner in the ‘Outstanding New Teacher of the Year’ category, recognising the significant impact she made since joining St Damian’s.
“Also, our THRIVE team have been awarded a Certificate of Excellence in ‘The Award for SEND and Inclusive Practice’ category for the outstanding work they do supporting our children with additional, and often complex needs, meaning that they fulfil their potential are well prepared for their future. St Damian’s continues to inspire and make a difference every day.”
The school team at St Damian’s is made up of 93 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, on Wednesday, June 18 – and St Damian’s will hold a programme of events.
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, chief executive of Pearson UK, added: “Every day, educators across the UK go above and beyond to inspire, support, and shape the future generation.
“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!”
And Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, commented: “On Thank a Teacher Day, I want to celebrate the remarkable professionals who are the backbone of our education system.
“Brilliant teachers make the single biggest difference to a child’s education.
“I’ve experienced first-hand how a great teacher can make all the difference. Teachers don’t just deliver lessons – they transform lives, inspire curiosity, and build the confidence our children need to succeed.
“For this incredible commitment to our nation’s future, we owe our teachers our deepest gratitude.”