Trust leader shortlisted for national education award

Andrew’s nomination celebrates his exceptional contribution to equality, inclusion and community cohesion, both through his nationally acclaimed No Outsiders programme and his wider leadership of personal development across Excelsior’s nine schools.

As Excelsior’s Personal Development Lead, Andrew designed and delivers a full curriculum that supports children from Year 1 to Year 6 to understand diversity, resilience and citizenship. He trains staff, models lessons and ensures Excelsior’s approach to personal development reflects the latest guidance and the lived realities of pupils today.

No Outsiders, developed by Andrew, offers schools a framework for teaching equality in line with the Equality Act 2010 and is now used in over 1,000 schools across the UK. The approach has inspired a nationwide conversation about inclusion and belonging, helping children, staff and parents feel confident discussing equality in all its forms. This term, as part of this work, Andrew has led open equality lessons for parents at The Meadows School, where families joined their children to explore themes of belonging, diversity and life in modern Britain.

Following the Southport riots in 2024, Andrew was invited by local schools and police representatives to deliver No Outsiders training to help rebuild community cohesion. More than 200 schools now use his free weekly assemblies to continue his work.

Speaking on his nomination, Andrew said: “I am delighted to have been named a finalist in the Education Today Awards. This nomination is a testament to the commitment Excelsior has to equality, diversity and community cohesion. Last year alone I visited 75 schools across the UK to model lessons and train staff on using No Outsiders to develop inclusive practice. I feel this is a time when this narrative is needed; every child belongs in our school and every child matters.”

Hazel Pulley, CEO of Excelsior Multi-Academy Trust, added: “Andrew’s impact is felt across Excelsior and far beyond. His energy, compassion and belief in the power of education to unite communities embody the values of our Trust. We are immensely proud of his achievements and the difference he continues to make for children, families and schools nationwide.”

Winners of the Education Today Awards 2025 will be announced at a ceremony in London later this year, where Andrew will join finalists from across the country. His nomination stands as a powerful recognition of Excelsior’s ongoing commitment to equality, inclusion and community cohesion.