York-based Excel Learning Trust proudly hosted its first-ever Staff Recognition Awards on 10 July 2025, celebrating the exceptional dedication and achievements of colleagues from across the Trust.
The event, which was held at Millthorpe School, provided a heartfelt opportunity to honour individuals who consistently go above and beyond to deliver educational excellence.
The evening was hosted by motivational speaker and coach, Cameron Parker, who regularly delivers sessions in schools, prisons, businesses and universities, sharing his reflections on his relentless pursuit of growth and improvement through adversity.
The Excel Staff Recognition awards fell into ten categories designed to recognise the wide range of contributions from across the Trust, from teaching to support staff, and leaders to volunteers.
The winners, who were announced on the evening by the event host Cameron Parker, received their awards from Mark Hassack, CEO. The winners were:
- Excelling as a Teaching Staff Member – Alice Longbottom, Subject Lead: Music, Millthorpe School
- Excelling as a Support Staff Member – Graham Penny, Senior Science Technician at York High School
- Excelling as a Leader – Kavina Rothenburg, Principal, Millthorpe School
- Excelling as an ECT (Early Career Teacher) – Grace Gentry, Teacher at York High School
- Excelling as a Volunteer – Stuart Drabble, Volunteer at Woodthorpe Primary School
- Excelling as an Innovator – Vicky Bettney, Head of Personal Development, York High School and Associate Director of Personal Development, Excel Learning Trust
- Excelling Through Collaboration – Sarah Watts, Careers Lead and PE Teacher, Millthorpe School
- Excelling Through Parent or Community Recognition – Hannah Boyd, Assistant Principal, Millthorpe School and Sally Smith, School Office Administrator, Woodthorpe Primary School
- Excelling Through Kindness – Beth Taylor, Office Assistant, Carr Junior School
- The Excel Special Achievement Award – Maria Mason, Teacher at Scarcroft Primary School
Award winners were joined by fellow nominees, colleagues, governors, trustees, and special guests.
Mr Hassack said: “These awards are our way of showing heartfelt appreciation for the tireless effort, dedication, and passion our staff and volunteers bring every day. We’re proud to celebrate those who make a lasting difference to our pupils, their families, and their colleagues. This ceremony was a perfect moment to shine a spotlight on their incredible work.”
Mr Ian Wiggins, Chair of the Trust Board added “The Excel Recognition Awards highlight the extraordinary individuals who make our Trust such a vibrant and successful community. It was a real privilege to honour the people who are the heart and soul of what we do. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees – your impact is truly inspiring.”
Excel Learning Trust is made up of a group of seven schools – Millthorpe School, York High School, Carr Junior School, Knavesmire, Scarcroft and Woodthorpe Primary Schools and Inspire Academy.
14 July 2025
