Bradford College

Grade One Teaching Awards Evening 2010/11

 Bradford College paid tribute to teaching staff at Bradford College with its annual ‘Grade One Teaching Awards Evening’ held to mark the achievements of teaching staff at Bradford College who have been awarded a grade one in lesson observations - one of the highest accolades possible in the teaching world!

A record number of teaching staff – 98 in total achieved grade one in their lesson observations and were invited to attend the memorable event held at the College’s Level 6 Restaurant.  These outstanding members of staff have helped play a vital role in shaping Bradford College into the innovative institution we know today.

The award winners enjoyed a formal dinner, prepared cooked and served by students from NVQ Hospitality and Catering, whilst student Josh Doyle from the Performing Arts Department provided the evenings entertainment.  The musical performance entertained and captivated award winners and guests throughout the night.

Assistant Director of Quality, Improvement & Performance, Debbie Forsythe Conroy was Master of Ceremonies.  In her opening address she said: “We are here to celebrate your success this evening and to recognise the importance your role has played in reshaping the College into a good College.”

Debbie continued:  “The quality of teaching and learning is where it all begins.  We should continue to strive to be outstanding… grade one… both in our classroom practice and in our role as part of the wider College team.”

During the course of the evening, awards were presented for outstanding teaching to staff from across the College. Michele Sutton, OBE, Bradford College Principal and Chief Executive presented the award winners with their certificates, congratulating each worthy winner.

 Commenting on the record number of teaching staff to receive awards, Principal Michele Sutton, OBE said: “We’re extremely lucky to have so many excellent teachers at Bradford College, who have achieved grade one in their lesson observations. The students are benefiting from their fantastic teaching abilities, which is reflected in the success rates of our students.”

 When asked how Angela Readhead, Bespoke Trainer Assessor felt about being recognised for her outstanding performance in the internal inspection, she replied: “I’m absolutely thrilled to receive this award. It’s a real privilege and so nice to be appreciated! I look forward to making further contributions to the College in the coming year.”

 When asked what the secret was to achieving a grade one in the internal inspection, dedicated Curriculum Team Leader for Health & Social Care, Claire Holliday replied: “I think it’s down to having a passion to see the students succeed.” Claire added: “It’s a privilege and pleasure to accept this award.”

Commenting on the evening which recognises staff achievements, Vice Principal for Curriculum and Quality, Kath Oldale said: “We’re extremely lucky to have so many excellent staff within the College, who have contributed significantly to the continued success of the College. It is a pleasure and a privilege to be here this evening to celebrate in their success”

Teacher Education and Business Tutor Sean Jagger speaking at the Awards Evening said: “It’s wonderful to be appreciated by the wider College.  It’s also great to meet colleagues from other departments and to share in a joint celebration.”

Plumbing and Construction Lecturer Michael Gration scooped an award for the second consecutive year for his outstanding teaching performance, speaking at the event Michael said: “I feel very proud to be recognised for the work and effort I put into the College.  I do it to ensure our students have the best experience at Bradford College.”

Christine Harrison, Health Studies Tutor was asked what makes a successful grade one teacher, Christine smiled and replied: “Enthusiasm, commitment and a passion for the job.” Christine continued: “It’s fantastic to be acknowledged as a grade 1 teacher, it makes you feel valued.”

David Worsnop teaches Construction and Brickwork at the College and added: “It’s lovely to be acknowledged this evening; I’m happy to accept this award and I’d like to thank the College.”

Vice Principal of Corporate Services, Andy Welsh paid tribute to the success of the staff in the internal inspection and summed up the evening with pride:  “This evening is a fantastic celebration of all the hard work our staff have put in over the year.  I’m proud of our staff, as I know what a grade one lesson observation means – that they are absolutely outstanding teachers!”

Vice Principal, Andy continued: “We have people here this evening that have received awards on more than one occasion, and there are also some new faces here tonight, which demonstrates the high quality of the teaching and learning at the College.”

• Grade One  Awards 2010 /11 – Gallery