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This Christmas, Lilac Sky Schools hosted a successful and enjoyable evening at the annual ‘Lilac Sky Schools Teacher Awards’. The event attended by over 120 teachers, support staff and others connected to the world of education took place at The London Television Centre, overlooking the stunning backdrop of the Thames by night.

The evening began with a glittering champagne reception, mouth- watering canapés, an impressive five foot high chocolate fountain and entertainment by the wonderfully talented ‘Blaize and Co’. Awards were presented following inspiring speeches from Trevor Averre-Beeson, Director of Education for Lilac Sky Schools; Michael Shaw, Opinion Editor of ‘The Times Educational Supplement’; and John Bayley, Teachers TV presenter.

The seven awards presented were named after key elements of Lilac Sky Schools Core Values. Those recognised included three colleagues from Sky College, Taunton, currently a key project for Lilac Sky Schools. Ben Parnell was presented with the ‘Courage’ award for his work as Principal, Maria Winterbourne was given the ‘Make Someone’s Day’ award for her efforts within the Pastoral Team and The Chair of Governors, Mr Patrick West, was presented with the ‘Special Award’ for his dedication to Sky College. David Houghton, Communications Manager at Sky College noted in his recent press release: “Two staff members and a Governor from Taunton’s Sky College were presented with awards in recognition of their hard work and dedication” (Read more from this press release here: http:// www.skycollege.co.uk )

Further awards of the evening included the ‘Hope’ award which was presented to Bob Cochrane, Assistant Headteacher of the Nightingale Academy in North London; the ‘Compassion’ award to Lilac Sky Schools’ own Emma Mottram; the ‘Relentless’ award to Angela Gartland, Achievement Leader for Edison Learning and finally the well-deserved ‘Wisdom’ award was presented to Chris Bowler, Principal of The Langley Academy, West Berkshire.

The evening ended on a high with a real sense of recognition of the achievements made over the past year by individuals and collectively within the field of education. The last to leave were seen Salsa dancing in to the small hours...