USW Teachers' and Advisers' Awards
The University of South Wales Teachers’ and Advisers’ Awards 2025–26 celebrate the outstanding work of teachers and advisers from sixth forms, colleges, and alternative education providers across the UK, recognising those who have made a real difference to students’ journeys and future aspirations.
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Award categories
There are four award categories:
- Champion for Widening Participation
Recognising individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to widening participation and supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Inspirational Teacher or Adviser of the Year
Celebrating those who inspire, motivate, and positively influence students through their teaching or guidance.
- Outstanding Pastoral and Wellbeing Support
Acknowledging exceptional care and support for student wellbeing and personal development.
- Supporting Progression to Higher Education
Recognising outstanding support that helps students successfully progress into higher education.
Key dates
- Nominations close on Friday 24 April 2026
- Awards ceremony on Thursday 2 July 2026 at Treforest Campus, University of South Wales
Shortlisted nominees will be invited to attend an afternoon tea and awards ceremony to celebrate their achievements.
Outstanding Pastoral and Wellbeing Support – Holly Padfield, Biology Teacher at Blessed Carlo Actuis Catholic School. Holly was nominated by colleague Ashton Montague.
Supporting Progression to Higher Education – Lizzie Tiernan, Head of Sixth Form at Ysgol Calon Cymru. Lizzie was nominated by colleague Daniella Patterson.
Inspirational Teacher or Adviser of the Year – Jane Richards, Head of Faculty: Baccalaureate and Entrepreneurship at Ysgol Gyfun Penweddig. Jane was nominated by a group of students from the school.
Highly Commended – Andrew Vaughan, Head of Careers, UCAS/HE Coordinator and Subject Leader for Biology at The Cathedral School. Andrew was nominated by several of his pupils.
Highly Commended – Rajdeep Waraich, Post 16 Achievement Coordinator & Lead Professional for Business Studies, King Edward Sixth Lordswood School for Girls and The Sixth Form Centre. Rajdeep was nominated by her student, Maya Kapil.
Highly Commended - Thomas Spencer, Head of Physics, Burford School. Thomas was nominated by his student, Abigail Coffin.
"Receiving the award for Supporting Progression to Higher Education from the University of South Wales was a true honour. It was incredibly rewarding to have the work we do in our Sixth Form recognised in such a meaningful way. I’m deeply grateful to my dedicated team, whose unwavering support plays a vital role in helping our learners succeed in their post-18 pathways. What drives me is the opportunity to inspire students to discover their passions—whether through Higher Education or other post-18 options—and to equip them with the independent learning skills and experiences they need to thrive. The Awards Ceremony was a fantastic celebration of outstanding practitioners who are all committed to supporting post-16 learners. It was a privilege to be among them. The event was beautifully organised, and the refreshments were a delightful touch that everyone enjoyed. This recognition has had a profoundly positive impact—not just on me personally, but on our entire Sixth Form community and school. It’s an experience I will always cherish." - Lizzie Tiernan, Ysgol Calon Cymru
