Now in its third year, the Bedford Independent Everyday Heroes Awards recognise people who have made a difference to our Borough and who make Bedford brilliant.
Over the next couple of weeks, we’re highlighting each award category ahead of the closing date for nominations on 3 March 2023.
The first in the spotlight is ‘Excellent in Education’.
This award is sponsored by Bedford School, which is also hosting the awards ceremony at the Quarry Theatre in April.
This category recognises excellence from an induvial in teaching, coaching or other educational disciplines and we’re looking for someone who has gone above and beyond in helping a young person or class to recognise their potential and shine.
Speaking about their decision to sponsor this award, Bedford School head master James Hodgson said: “The Excellence in Education Award shines a light on those extraordinary people who go above and beyond to educate and nurture our children, and in doing so, help shape a brighter future for all of us.
“Teaching is so much more than just a job. Teachers and educators make a difference to a child’s future; they inspire and encourage, and we are lucky to live in a town which is full of individuals who are worthy of this award.”
You can nominate an everyday hero who deserves to receive the Excellence in Education award at the form below by 3 March 2023.
Please remember the nomination must be for activities carried out between January and December 2022.
You can find the nomination form here.
Hosted by Bedford School
As hosts, Bedford School will give our finalists a chance to celebrate their achievements in style with an awards ceremony at the Quarry Theatre at St. Luke’s.
‘It is a great privilege to be hosting this incredible event for the third year running,” said James.
“These awards have deservedly become a much-anticipated highlight in our town’s calendar, and it gives us no greater pleasure than to welcome and meet our town’s heroes – the people who go above and beyond to make our town such an incredible place in which to live and work, and for visitors to come to and enjoy.
“Bedford is one of the most, if not the most, generous towns in which I have lived. There is a generosity of spirit which can be seen in the vast amounts of kindness, compassion, tireless energy and unwavering dedication so many people give freely to make our town a better place.
“I am delighted that some of our own boys are learning this too. Volunteering in the community and giving their time to others reaps benefits for all involved.
“Valuable life lessons are learnt, empathy is gained and life-long partnerships are made, and what better role models for them to learn from than our town’s heroes who truly are an inspiration to us all.”
2021 winner
Last year’s winner was Belinda Edgeworth, who was described by her nominator as one of the most selfless people they know.
She has worked in education for 30+ years as a teaching assistant and a teacher, working with SEND children and has played a massive part in their lives.
Belinda works with Down Syndrome children and she is loved by every child she works with, even shaping one boy into being able to write, concentrate and work at the level of his Year 5 class.
She goes above and beyond for all children to help them get to where they need to be and always puts them first, often tutoring them for free after a long day at work.
Highly commended was Rachel Rogan.
You can find out more about the Bedford Independent Everyday Heroes Awards, in partnership with The Harpur Trust, and the other categories open for entries here.
