Oldham hero Steve honoured at the Educate Awards

Date published: 20 November 2023


Shaw teacher Steve Hill was crowned a winner at the glittering Educate Awards ceremony last night (Friday).  

Steve, from St Joseph’s Primary School, received the highly coveted Teacher of the Year award, sponsored by CER Education, which celebrates outstanding teachers who are bringing learning to life by engaging and inspiring children and young people to fulfil their potential through their tireless efforts, patience, passion, and dedication. 

The judges believed that Steve embodies all of that – commenting on how he has inspired colleagues and students alike and how the Educate Awards entry expressed his ‘kind-nature’.

Steve is said to make ‘learning a pleasure’ and be passionate in everything that he does, encouraging the children to be their best too. 

He also recently published his first book, ‘What’s Next Sir?’, and is donating the proceeds to various charities, in the UK and abroad. 

Now in its 12th year, the Educate Awards showcases the hard work and creativity in the education sector, from STEM and performing arts to sports and literacy. 

The awards also recognise the individuals who bring schools and colleges to life, from inspiring teachers and dedicated support staff to strategic leadership teams. 

In partnership with ASL and Ricoh, the Educate Awards took place at the Liverpool Cathedral and welcomed over 700 guests.

The evening was hosted by broadcaster Simon ‘Rossie’ Ross. 

Alongside the awards ceremony was a delicious three-course gala dinner and glittering entertainment from the region’s schools.

Providing a soundtrack to the reception was Gateacre School student, Aiden Ellis.

Opening the big event was Rainford High, which delivered a stellar performance of ‘Be Our Guest’ from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, followed by a dance and poetry performance from The Hollins in Accrington.

The final performance of the night came from up-and-coming indie band, The Height, from Manchester. 

Kim O’Brien, founder of the Educate Awards, said: “Congratulations to Stephen Hill for winning Teacher of the Year at this year’s Educate Awards! 

“A big well done to the runners-up and finalists too.

"Results this year were incredibly close, and judges had a difficult time deciding not only the shortlist but also overall the winners.” 

Kim added: “The Educate Awards team is proud to champion the innovation, diversity and dedication that is taking place in educational establishments around the region.

"Entries will open again in February 2024, and we encourage all types of schools and colleges to submit as many entries as they like, for free.” 

Associate sponsors of the Educate Awards 2023 include: All About STEM, Angel Solutions, CER, CPMM Media Group, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Careers Hub, Liverpool John Moores University, LSSP, SENDSCOPE, and SupplyWell. 


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