Harborough Teacher Receives National Lifetime Achievement Award

A long-serving teacher at Welland Park Academy in Market Harborough has been recognised with a national award for her contribution to education.

French and German teacher Cheryl Gerald has received a Bronze Award for Lifetime Achievement in this year’s Pearson National Teaching Awards.

The award recognises nearly four decades of dedication to teaching and her lasting impact on students and colleagues, both at the school and across the wider community.

Cheryl Gerald has received a Bronze Award for Lifetime Achievement in this year’s Pearson National Teaching Awards.

Mrs Gerald has taught at Welland Park Academy for 35 years after joining in 1991, having begun her teaching career in 1988. She is credited with inspiring generations of pupils to develop a passion for languages, with many former students going on to study French at A-level and degree level.

Finance and operations manager Martin Towers nominated Mrs Gerald for the award and said she is widely respected within the school community, describing her as an inspirational presence who continues to support and motivate students:

Colleagues say Mrs Gerald has maintained her enthusiasm and commitment throughout her career, adapting to changes in curriculum while continuing to develop teaching resources and support staff.

Her work has also included leading school trips, mentoring new teachers and contributing to wider school improvement initiatives.

Welland Park Academy said her influence will continue to be felt for many years through the students she has taught and the staff she has supported.