Sinai headteacher wins national Silver Award for excellence in education

The headteacher of Europe’s largest Jewish primary school has been recognised among the country’s leading educators after winning a national Silver Award in this year’s Pearson National Teaching Awards.

Juliette Lipshaw, who leads Sinai Jewish Primary School in Kenton, was named one of just six recipients in the Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School category on National Thank a Teacher Day.

The award places Lipshaw among 99 teachers, school leaders, support staff and education settings honoured across the UK this year and means she will now be considered for a Gold Award, with winners due to be announced later this year.

Sinai, which educates 658 pupils, is the largest Jewish primary school in Europe and was rated Outstanding in all areas at its most recent Ofsted inspection.

Reacting to the award, Lipshaw said: “After 32 years of dedicated service in education, I still see every single day as a fresh opportunity to make a positive impact on a young life, and that continues to be my greatest motivation.

“I have never done this job for recognition, I do it for the genuine love of what I do and a deep desire to make the Sinai school experience truly outstanding for every child in our care.

“That said, it is a tremendous honour to receive this award. I feel incredibly proud and privileged to be recognised in this way.”

The Pearson National Teaching Awards are run by the Teaching Awards Trust and celebrate excellence across the education sector.

Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, said: “For many of us, a teacher was the person who helped us believe in ourselves and recognise what we were capable of.

“Every day, educators support young people to be the best they can be, nurturing their potential and leaving a lasting impact that follows them into adulthood.

“This year’s Silver Winners represent the amazing dedication and brilliant work that goes on in classrooms across the country, and we’re delighted to be celebrating them today.”

Sir Michael Morpurgo, president of the Teaching Awards Trust, congratulated this year’s winners, saying: “The dedication and impact of those involved in educating young people is truly remarkable. Their influence extends well beyond the classroom.

“Long before children find their voice, their confidence, or their calling, there is usually a teacher who helped them get there, working patiently and persistently, and often without any recognition at all.”

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson also paid tribute to award recipients, saying: “On Thank a Teacher Day, we stop to appreciate the extraordinary lengths teachers go to, every single day, to inspire the young people in their classrooms.

“I know more than most how great teachers shape young lives. So, I wanted to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your dedication, your commitment and your hunger to help your pupils go on to live better, more fulfilling lives.”