The very best of Cumbria’s education sector was celebrated at the Golden Apple Awards 2026 earlier this month – with several of our pupils, colleagues and schools receiving top honours on the night.
The awards highlight the incredible work which takes place within Cumbria’s education sector and recognise outstanding pupils, inspiring colleagues and exceptional schools that make positive impacts in their communities every day.
CET was proudly represented across a number of categories, with four award winners from across the Trust:
- Against All Odds: Isaac Jackson, The Whitehaven Academy
- Educational Professional Newcomer of the Year: Ellie Sutton, The Whitehaven Academy
- Secondary School of the Year: The Whitehaven Academy
- Student of the Year: Leah Dodd, Petteril Bank School
Nigel Youngman, Headteacher at The Whitehaven Academy, commented: “The Golden Apple Awards showcase the incredible talent that exists across our county’s education sector, and it was a privilege to be part of such a positive celebration. This award is a testament to the deep commitment of all staff, the huge talent of our students and the incredible support from the community of Whitehaven.
“We were delighted to see both individual achievements and the collective success of our school recognised once again. I would like to congratulate Isaac and Mrs Sutton on their well-deserved awards, as well as all the finalists and winners who were celebrated on the evening.”
Jemma Nicholson, Headteacher at Petteril Bank School, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Leah, a fantastic role model and valued member of our school community, has been named Student of the Year.
“As a school, we are incredibly proud of her achievement and hope it inspires other pupils to believe in themselves and their potential.”
All of us at CET are immensely proud of everyone who represented the Trust and look forward to continuing to celebrate the achievements of our pupils, colleagues and schools throughout the year.