Derby College Group celebrates excellence at Teacher, Trainer and Assessor Awards ceremony

Derby College Group has celebrated the outstanding commitment, professionalism and impact of its teaching staff at the Teacher, Trainer and Assessor Awards Ceremony, held on 17th December 2025 at The Roundhouse.

Eight of the award winners (left to right): Les Calter, Kristina Keeling, Sarah Acaster, Aggie Halucha, Emma Edwards, Linda Horsborough, Grace Shirley and Tony Ward (Award winners not present Richard Brewell and Lakinder Singh)

The awards recognise inspirational teachers, trainers and assessors across the College who consistently demonstrate excellence in teaching and learning and who make a meaningful difference to student outcomes. The scheme highlights best practice across a wide range of curriculum areas and reinforces Derby College Group’s commitment to high-quality education.

This round of awards recognised colleagues working across multiple faculties, including Rolls-Royce, Inclusion, Engineering, Engineering Apprenticeships, Automotive Technology, Study Programme English, Fashion Business, Lexis, Hair and Beauty, and Applied Science.

The Teacher, Trainer and Assessor Awards are nominated by Derby College Group’s Advanced Teacher Practitioner teams within each academy. Nominations are made half termly, following the observation of outstanding practice and informed by discussions with team managers, curriculum teams and students.

The awards celebrate colleagues who inspire and engage learners, set high expectations, and support students to achieve their full potential. Award recipients are formally recognised through certification and promotion across the College, including CEO communications, social media and website features.

Among this term’s ten nominees were two colleagues whose work exemplifies the values and ambition of Derby College Group.

Linda Horsborough, Teacher of Science, was nominated for the Teacher Award in recognition of her exceptional dedication to high expectations, professional development and curriculum planning and design. Linda consistently sets ambitious goals for learners, fostering a culture of excellence and resilience. Her strong belief in the potential of every student is reflected in the supportive and aspirational learning environment she creates. As one of the first providers to offer the T Level in Science, Linda has shown outstanding commitment to delivering a high-quality course that achieves strong outcomes for students. 

Linda commented on receiving the award: “I’m grateful for this recognition. Supporting students to believe in themselves, aim high and achieve their goals is what matters most, and I’m proud to be part of a team that puts learners first every day.”

Les Calter, Automotive Technology Academy, was nominated for the Teacher Assessor Award for his professionalism, adaptability and passion for education. Les has demonstrated an exceptional work ethic and a learner-centred approach, ensuring students feel supported, challenged and motivated to succeed. His lessons are carefully planned and inclusive, with engaging activities that meet diverse learning needs. 

Beyond the classroom and workshop, Les plays an active role in supporting colleagues, sharing best practice and contributing to a culture of continuous improvement across the academy.

Catherine Guerrero, Team Manager for Teaching and Learning, said: “The Teacher, Trainer and Assessor Awards represent a truly meaningful celebration of excellence in education. They shine a spotlight on the dedication, creativity and passion that our colleagues bring to their roles every day. These awards are not just about recognition.

"They are about inspiring others, sharing best practice and reinforcing the positive impact that outstanding teaching and learning has on our students’ success. We are proud to honour those who go above and beyond to make a difference, and we look forward to continuing this journey of recognition and inspiration with the next phase of awards in March 2026.”

The next Teacher, Trainer and Assessor Awards Ceremony will take place in March 2026, continuing Derby College Group’s commitment to recognising excellence and celebrating the people who shape positive learning experiences for students every day.