The NGA’s flagship awards recognise the very best examples of school and trust governance across England. This year’s ceremony will take place at the House of Commons on Wednesday 17 September 2025, where finalists will gather for an afternoon tea, networking opportunities with education leaders and the announcement of the winners.

The event will also include a keynote address from Catherine McKinnell MP, Minister of State for School Standards, celebrating the vital role of governance in education.

Sarah’s shortlisting reflects her outstanding contribution to ensuring our Trust operates with transparency, compliance and robust decision-making. Her leadership has strengthened governance across the organisation, ensuring colleagues and boards are well-informed and empowered to act in the best interests of students, staff, and communities.

Ruth Agnew, Chief Relationships and Engagement Officer, said: “I was delighted to be able to nominate Sarah for this award. We've always valued governance within our Trust but, in the wider sector, it's often something that only receives any focus when things have gone wrong, so it's great to see it being highlighted for positive reasons.

“Sarah works incredibly hard to make sure everything we do as a Trust is legally compliant and that decision-making is solid and everyone is well-informed. She's worked in her own time to successfully complete the highest level of governance qualification and it's so nice to see work that usually goes on behind the scenes receiving well-deserved public recognition in this way.”