The ceremony, set for November 30th, will celebrate exceptional educators from across the UK, recognising their dedication, achievements, and impact on students’ lives.
Having already been recognised amongst thousands of nominees earlier this year when she received a Silver Award for Primary Headteacher of the year award, Dawn will be in the running for a Gold Award.
Dawn Ferdinand’s passion for education has shaped an extraordinary career dedicated to transforming lives and communities. As Headteacher of St Mark’s Primary from 2000, she led the school to its first OFSTED "Outstanding" rating in 2007. Later, at The Willow Primary and Broadwaters Children’s Centre in Tottenham, she elevated both organisations to successive "Outstanding" grades, most recently in 2022 and 2023.
In addition to her school leadership, Dawn supports headteachers as a school improvement partner and mentors teachers into leadership roles. She is also a champion for vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, co-founding organisations to drive social equity.
Dawn Ferdinand, Headteacher at The Willow Primary School, said:
It’s absolutely fantastic to have already won silver, and while going for gold feels scary, I’m also really excited!
It’s great to be able to get dressed up and celebrate the joy of the teaching profession. It’s a reminder that, whether it is a medal or a classroom, the journey is about passion, growth and celebrating the incredible impact we can make.
I’m already a winner as the Headteacher here, so nothing will take away the joy of achieving this for my community.
Cllr Zena Brabazon, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools, and Families at Haringey Council, said:
Haringey is home to some of the best teachers, all of whom play a vital role in shaping the lives of young people in our borough. Dawn Ferdinand is a shining example of this.
This is a fantastic achievement, and we are extremely proud of her. Dawn’s hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality education for Haringey’s children is truly appreciated.
Mary Palmer, CEO of the Teaching Awards Trust shared her thoughts on the upcoming ceremony:
Every educator deserves acknowledgement for the exceptional impact they have in both their classrooms and the wider community, every day.
The awards evening is a chance to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work happening in early years, schools and colleges across the UK, and celebrate all who make it happen.
Huge congratulations to everyone who has made it this far and best of luck!
The awards ceremony, hosted by TV presenter Gaby Roslin at The Brewery, will celebrate the outstanding contributions of teachers, lecturers, support staff, and institutions. The event highlights the exceptional efforts of education professionals in creating meaningful and unforgettable experiences for young people.
The Pearson National Teaching Awards are organised by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity that has been supporting educators for over 25 years. These awards aim to acknowledge the essential roles that teachers, support staff, and early years educators play in shaping the lives of young people.
Entries are now open for educators across the country to be recognised in the 2025 Pearson National Teaching Awards. Submissions can be made through the Pearson National Teaching Awards website.
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