Lucy Harrison, Headteacher at Archer Academy in East Finchley, has been announced as the Gold Winner of the Headteacher of the Year in a Secondary School category, at the 2025 Pearson National Teaching Awards, considered the ‘Oscars’ of the teaching profession.
Lucy Harrison has transformed the Archer Academy into a thriving community not just for students, but for staff too. During ten years of leadership, she has introduced flexible working, staff wellbeing initiatives, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning. She also has a strong focus on student voice, creating leadership roles, societies and feedback forums that give young people a say in their school experience.
Following a rigorous judging process, Lucy Harrison was selected from thousands of nominees for her inspirational leadership, which has redefined student engagement and created a workplace culture that inspires pride and purpose throughout the school community.
The Pearson National Teaching Awards is an annual celebration that honours the incredible achievements and transformative impact of educators. The annual glamorous awards ceremony held at The Brewery in Central London last weekend, was hosted by TV presenter and broadcaster Gaby Roslin, bringing together Silver Winners across 16 categories, alongside industry peers, colleagues and special guests, including Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson.
Run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity, and sponsored by Pearson, the world’s lifelong learning company, the awards shine a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.
Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, says: “Education is built on the steady, often unseen work of dedicated individuals – teachers and school staff who show up every day to make a difference. The Pearson National Teaching Awards give us the chance to recognise and celebrate that commitment. This year’s entries were, once again, full of powerful stories of creativity and care. My congratulations to all of this year’s winners, you remind us what a vital role education plays in shaping lives and futures.”
Sharon Hague, CEO, Pearson UK, says: “Behind every confident student or changed life, there’s an educator who made it possible. The Pearson National Teaching Awards shines a spotlight on the inspiring individuals whose influence has gone far beyond the classroom. This is a celebration of excellence at the highest level, and we are thrilled to be able to recognise these achievements. Congratulations to all of this year’s Gold Winners!”
Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, says: “Teachers and school staff are the heart of our education system, inspiring young people and helping them to achieve and thrive. These awards are a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact great educators have, because the path to national renewal runs through our schools. My warmest congratulations to all of this year’s winners and nominees – your hard work, care, and commitment shape futures, and I’m proud to work with you to break down barriers to opportunity.”
Paul Matthias, National Education Director at Hays, Sponsor of The Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Secondary School says: “We’re thrilled to celebrate this year’s Gold Winner. Lucy has been a constant source of support for students, teachers, and staff. She has always put the school community first, and it reflects in just how united, supportive, and vibrant the school community has become. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.”