Our Own Inspirational Educator

Recently, Dorota Hall, a teaching assistant from St Edward's RC & CofE School, was named one of the nation’s most inspirational educators on The One Show on BBC One. Selected from thousands of nominations, Dorota Hall has won a Gold Award in the Pearson National Teaching Awards for The Award for Teaching Assistant of the Year.

Speaking about her award Dorota Hall said: 

“I’d like to thank the students and staff at St Edward’s School, especially Mr Antram for their support and faith in me. It is an honour to be nominated and truly overwhelming to win. I can’t put into words the love I have for working with my students, it is a privilege to watch them learn and grow into independent young people. I take inspiration from the students and staff I work with every day and strive to continually improve my practice. Can I also take the opportunity to thank Pearson for this award, it means so much knowing that the hard work we do as educators is recognised.”

The award came as part of a week-long celebration of teaching which ended Sunday 28th December at a prestigious ceremony celebrating all 102 Silver Winners of the Pearson National Teaching Awards. At the ceremony, Dorota Hall was honoured alongside fellow Gold Winners across 15 categories as the best of the UK’s educators. 

Since joining St Edward’s School, Dorota has made a significant difference to the learning of every child through her meticulously planned and engaging literacy lessons. Her patience and determination with students with considerable speech and communication challenges have enabled children to socialise and engage beyond expectations.  

Dorota supports students and families beyond her role within the department and frequently liaises with students in English and Polish as needed, working closely with Polish families in their first language. 

The Pearson National Teaching Award winners have been honoured for their incredible work supporting learners across the country. Each award winner has repeatedly gone above and beyond their role to change the lives of their students and help them move towards a brighter future.  

The Pearson National Teaching Awards is an annual celebration of excellence in education, founded in 1998 by Lord Puttnam to recognise the life-changing impact an inspirational teacher can have on the lives of the young people they work with. The 2022 Pearson National Teaching Awards opened for entry on Friday 26 November 2021. 

Sir Michael Morpurgo, celebrated author and former Children’s laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, said: 

“People of all ages will always remember that wonderful teacher who made such a difference in their lives. The teacher will never know how many lives they have changed, or the impact they have made on so many families, but our hope is that these awards help show our gratitude.”

Sharon Hague, Managing Director of Pearson School Qualifications, said:  

“Dorota Hall is a shining example of the wonderful educators who work tirelessly across the country to provide the best possible experience for their students, and we thank them all. 

“Throughout the awards we’ve heard so many inspirational stories of school and college staff who show such exceptional dedication to their students, to their colleagues, and to their communities. Our congratulations go to all winners on their award.”

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said:

“I would like to congratulate Dorota Hall for this recognition of their amazing work and dedication to their students. Winning one of these awards is a terrific achievement and is testament to Dorota’s skill, commitment and passion for teaching.