Fairfax Academy is celebrating a standout evening at the Midlands Education Awards, taking home two major honours at the black-tie ceremony held at Millennium Point, in Birmingham, on Friday 3 July.
PE Teacher and Head of Year 10, Mr Chris Ravenscroft, was named Teacher of the Year – an accolade he described as completely unexpected after 26 years at Fairfax Academy.
“Not in a month of Sundays did I think I stood a chance at winning,” he said.
Mr Ravenscroft, who has worked hard to maintain and develop the Fairfax sporting culture in a changing society – especially in rugby, paid tribute to his colleagues and family who make his work possible.
“Without lots of help I wouldn’t be able to run the after-school clubs, the weekends away on DofE and still be a teacher and a Head of Year.
“My family also adapt their days and nights so I can spend a lot of time with my teams, trips and year group. Without their constant understanding I would be unable to apply myself like I do.”
He added that despite the demands of the role, his motivation remains strong: “It is a tiring job. It is for every teacher, but I really enjoy my role and when I get out of bed each morning I am looking forward to what the day might bring.”
Fairfax Academy’s pastoral team were also named winners in the Wellbeing category, recognising the school’s deep commitment to mental health, resilience and holistic care for students.
Trust Lead for Inclusion, Helen Williams, said: “This recognition builds on our recent achievement of gaining the Wellbeing Award for School’s accreditation, further celebrating the commitment we have made to fostering a positive and supportive environment for our entire school community.
Wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do at Fairfax. From creating a strong sense of belonging in every classroom to providing specialist and bespoke pathways that meet the diverse needs of our students.”
In total, five members of staff from across the Trust were shortlisted. Mr Steve Huntington, Principal of Smith’s Wood Academy, was nominated for Principal of the Year, acknowledging his leadership in transforming the school from special measures to one of the most improved in England. Assistant Principal Holly Poole at Bournville All-Through School and Mr Jason Halstead from Erdington Academy were both nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising their decades of service to their schools and communities.
Founder and CEO of the Awards, Jas Rohel, praised all nominees, saying: “Being named as a finalist, is an outstanding achievement in itself and a testament to the positive impact you make every day.
“It was wonderful to see so many people come together to recognise the individuals, teams and organisations who go above and beyond for learners across the Midlands. Thank you for helping to make the evening so special.”
Nominations for the 2027 Education Awards are now open.