A York High School teacher has won a prestigious award at The Educators’ Trust Awards 2025, in recognition of her outstanding teaching and advocacy work for students facing any kind of adversity.
Cheryl Alexander, a specialist Chemistry teacher at York High, received the ‘Master Educator’s Award for Outstanding School Leadership’ at an awards evening at The Merchant Taylors Hall on 25 April, in the presence of guest speaker, Baroness Floella Benjamin.
The overarching aim of The Educators’ Trust is ‘to promote the development of the profession of educator’ which is done through awarding prizes, bursaries and grants to outstanding individual educators for innovation and excellence in professional practice.
Award winners can come from any level of education, any subject area and any setting in which learning takes place.
In the nomination for her award, Cheryl is described as an inspiring science teacher at York High School who has overcome significant personal challenges to become a leader in inclusive education. Despite having multiple physical and sensory disabilities, and using a wheelchair, Cheryl pursued advanced degrees in chemistry and education, supported by her assistance dogs through the charity Canine Partners. Her first dog, Orca, received the PDSA Gold Medal for heroically rescuing her after a serious accident. Cheryl credits Orca and her second dog, Tyrian, for enabling her to pursue her education and career.
Beyond the classroom, Cheryl is a passionate advocate for children and young people facing adversity as well as individuals with disabilities and uses her own experiences to empower students and challenge perceptions. She ensures her students not only gain academic knowledge but also develop life skills and cultural awareness. Her recognition by the Royal Society of Chemistry in their ‘175 Faces of Chemistry’ and contributions to its inclusion report highlight her impact on promoting diversity in education.
Principal of York High School, Mr Gavin Kumar, said “This award is thoroughly deserved, and we are all delighted for Cheryl. She is a wonderful teacher who continues to inspire her students and colleagues, demonstrating that with support and determination, barriers can be overcome. She is an amazing role model for our students.”
Cheryl said “I am really honoured to have received this award and it’s even more special that it’s in recognition of the work I do in a job I love and causes I feel very passionate about. I want every child and young person to have a ‘village’ to surround them, particularly those facing adversity. I am collecting the award on behalf of my own village and would like to thank all the people who have supported me on my journey. If I can help and support others to find their village and fill any gaps in their lives, I will.
“It was wonderful to hear the other winners’ stories and from Baroness Floella Benjamin who spoke with vigour to remind us all of our importance as educators.”
2 May 2025