#EMATters Celebration Awards 2026

Nominations for this year’s #EMATters Celebration Awards are now open!

The awards aim to recognise the efforts and contributions of pupils, staff and volunteers from across the #EMATter community.

Please consider nominating – it only takes a few minutes, and it would be great to see lots of our fantastic staff and pupils recognised again this year.

For 2026 the award categories have been updated so that they align with the East Midlands Academy Trust values of Impact, Inclusion and Innovation. The list of categories for this year is as follows:

Impact Award – Teacher of the Year
To recognise those teachers whose work makes a clear and positive difference to learners’ outcomes, wellbeing or experiences.

Impact Award – Pupil of the Year To recognise those pupils whose actions, attitude and effort make a clear and positive difference to their own progress and/or the wider school community. They may have had particular academic success, or a sporting or extra-curricular achievement eg sports, arts, etc or have overcome adversity to achieve.

Inclusion Award (Staff)
To recognise individuals who promote an inclusive environment where all learners /colleagues feel safe, valued and able to succeed. This category is open to both teaching and non-teaching staff.

Inclusion Award (Pupil)
To recognise pupils who demonstrate exceptional personal achievement in overcoming challenges such as SEND or additional needs, while actively supporting and inspiring others to do the same.

Innovation Award
To recognise staff (teaching and non-teaching) and/or pupils who bring new ideas or improved ways of working that enhance learning or learner wellbeing and school life, for example using new technology, eco-awareness, introducing new initiatives to peers.

#EMATters Achievement Award
A special award recognising a pupil who models #EMATters values and / or regularly goes above and beyond to contribute to school life. The winner of this category will be chosen by the Pupil Parliament.

Nominate someone now! The deadline to nominate is Wednesday 22nd April 2026. Winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony in July.