Category Criteria

Projects that drive curiosity, exploration and real-world scientific thinking.

Evidence may include:

• Student-led research or investigations

• Practical experiments or fieldwork

• Competitions or external collaborations

• Testimonials demonstrating impact

Judging focuses on:

• Creativity and originality

• Impact on engagement and thinking skills

• Real-world application

• Strength of partnerships

Initiatives that use technology to transform teaching and develop digital skills.

Evidence may include:

• AI, coding, robotics, VR/AR

• Student-led digital projects

• Industry engagement

• Technology embedded in delivery

Judging focuses on:

• Innovation in use of technology

• Impact on skills and engagement

• Real-world relevance

• Scalability

Programmes developing problem-solving, design thinking and practical skills.

Evidence may include:

• Student-built projects or prototypes

• Competitions such as F1 in Schools or VEX Robotics

• Industry collaboration

• Real-world challenges

Judging focuses on:

• Innovation and creativity

• Practical application

• Industry engagement

• Learner impact

Creative and cross-disciplinary work that builds confidence and expression.

Evidence may include:

• Student work, exhibitions or performances

• Digital and creative technology

• Cross-curricular projects

• Industry collaboration

Judging focuses on:

• Originality and creativity

• Engagement with industry

• Impact on confidence and thinking

• Innovation in approach

Approaches that improve understanding, engagement and real-world application.

Evidence may include:

• Innovative teaching methods

• Competitions or challenges

• Real-world applications

• University or industry partnerships

Judging focuses on:

• Innovation in delivery

• Impact on understanding

• Real-world relevance

• Evidence of improved outcomes

Innovation in Learning

Celebrating organisations transforming how young people learn through creativity, technology and new approaches to teaching.

Evidence may include:

• New or reimagined teaching models or curriculum design

• Use of technology to enhance learning experiences

• Cross-disciplinary or project-based learning

• Scalable approaches adopted across departments or organisations

• Partnerships that enhance delivery or impact

Judging focuses on:

• Innovation and originality in approach

• Impact on learner engagement and outcomes

• Use of technology or new methodologies

• Scalability and sustainability

Recognising partnerships between education and employers that bring real-world learning into education.

Evidence may include:

• Employer-led projects, mentoring or experiences

• Work placements, live briefs or co-designed curriculum

• Long-term partnerships with measurable outcomes

• Industry involvement in teaching or enrichment

• Clear links to careers and pathways

Judging focuses on:

• Strength and depth of partnership

• Real-world relevance and application

• Impact on skills, awareness and aspiration

• Sustainability of the collaboration

Recognising individuals and organisations driving system-level change across education.

Evidence may include:

• Strategic initiatives influencing multiple schools or organisations

• Leadership driving innovation in teaching and learning

• Programmes improving outcomes at scale

• Collaboration across sectors or regions

• Thought leadership shaping future skills and education

Judging focuses on:

• Vision and leadership impact

• Scale and reach of influence

• Measurable improvements in outcomes

• Contribution to the wider education system