On Friday 8th November the first ‘Educate Rochdale Awards’ was hosted in the beautiful and historic Rochdale Town Hall by Alan Keegan, ‘The voice of Old Trafford’.

The awards have been designed to highlight outstanding achievements and contributions in the field of education in schools and colleges across the borough.

Schools and colleges were shortlisted in each of the categories, and members of the education community were invited to join in recognising the exceptional individuals who have made a significant impact to education in our region.

We were delighted that Hollingworth Academy and Newhouse Academy were shortlisted as finalists.

Hollingworth Academy for the Careers and Enterprise Award, in which they were named runner up, and the Most Inspirational School / College Award, in which they were named winners.

Two highly experienced and dedicated members of Newhouse Academy were also shortlisted as finalists; Ms Ann Mcloughlin for the Lifetime Achievement Award. Ann gave 40 years of service to the young people of Heywood and Rochdale until her retirement in July this year and was named runner up in her category. Mrs Nicola Lane, a long serving member of the technology team who teaches construction was named winner in the Teacher of the Year category.

We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our schools and individuals. The outstanding commitment, dedication and passion, contributing to the quality of education and opportunities our young people receive.