The Silver Pearson National Teaching Award was presented at a special celebration at Lipson Co-operative Academy, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, where Martin served as headteacher until Easter this year.

The presentation was made by four former and current students who played a key role in the judging process. Two are current students at the academy, while two former students now work at the school as learning support workers, reflecting the lasting impact Martin has had on generations of young people.

The judging panel also heard from governors, parents and colleagues past and present, all of whom spoke about Martin’s transformative leadership, commitment to young people and lasting influence on education across Plymouth and the South West.

The Silver winners, announced as part of National Thank a Teacher Day celebrations, form the shortlist for the prestigious Gold awards, which will be announced at a ceremony in London and on BBC One’s The One Show later this year.

Martin’s career has been defined by a firm belief in the potential of every child and a determination to ensure that background should never be a barrier to success.

His leadership at Lipson Co-operative Academy is widely regarded as one of the region’s most notable school improvement stories. When he joined the school in 2019, it faced significant challenges. Initially appointed for a single day to provide stability, he went on to oversee a remarkable turnaround over the next seven years, helping to create a thriving school recognised for both academic success and an inclusive culture.

Throughout his career, Martin has championed a culture of belonging, kindness and high expectations. Under his leadership, students, families and staff consistently described Lipson as a school where people felt valued, supported and inspired to achieve their best.

His influence extends far beyond Lipson. Martin has mentored school leaders across the region, supported system-wide improvement and helped shape the next generation of educational leadership. Many headteachers and senior leaders credit him with having a profound influence on their own approach to leadership.

National Thank a Teacher Day and the Pearson National Teaching Awards are run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity established more than 25 years ago to celebrate the transformative impact of education and recognise the teachers, support staff, schools, colleges and early years educators who inspire young people every day.

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said:

 “Martin’s contribution to education over nearly forty years is simply extraordinary. He has transformed the life chances of thousands of young people and inspired countless colleagues throughout his career.

“What makes this recognition particularly special is that the judges heard directly from students, former students, families, governors and colleagues whose lives have been touched by Martin’s leadership. The fact that students he once taught and supported were able to present him with this award is a testament to the lasting difference he has made.

“We are incredibly proud to see Martin recognised with a Silver Pearson National Teaching Award and delighted that his remarkable contribution to education is being celebrated on a national stage. I can think of no one more deserving.”

Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, said:

"We are proud to take this opportunity to say thank you to the teachers up and down the country who make our schools so special. This year's Silver winners represent the amazing dedication and brilliant work that goes on in classrooms across the country, and we're delighted to be celebrating them today.”