As a consultancy that works closely with schools and trusts to secure funding and deliver estate improvement projects, ECS understands the dedication required to create environments where pupils and staff can thrive. The nEdEx Awards provided an opportunity to celebrate not only educational outcomes, but also the leadership, collaboration and commitment that underpin successful schools and trusts.
Supporting Excellence Across Three Key Categories
This year, ECS proudly sponsored three award categories that reflect values we see demonstrated daily across the education sector.
Small Trust of the Year
Multi-Academy Trusts play a vital role in supporting schools, sharing expertise and driving improvement. While larger trusts often attract attention due to their scale, smaller trusts frequently deliver exceptional impact through strong relationships, agile leadership and a deep understanding of their communities.
We were delighted to see Summit Learning Trust recognised as the winner of Small Trust of the Year. The award celebrates the trust’s commitment to educational excellence, collaboration and positive outcomes for the pupils and communities it serves.

SEND Excellence Award
Creating inclusive educational environments where every child has the opportunity to succeed is fundamental to the future of education.
The SEND Excellence Award recognises organisations that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the opportunities, support and encouragement needed to thrive.
Congratulations to Liberty Academy Trust on being named the winner of the SEND Excellence Award. Their dedication to inclusive practice and support for pupils with additional needs exemplifies the values this award was created to celebrate.

School Leadership Team of the Year
Strong leadership is at the heart of every successful school. Effective leadership teams provide strategic direction, support staff development, foster positive school cultures and ensure that pupils receive the highest quality educational experience possible.
Paston Ridings Primary School was named School Leadership Team of the Year in recognition of the outstanding work undertaken by its leadership team. Their achievement reflects the commitment, resilience and vision required to lead schools successfully in an increasingly complex educational landscape.

Celebrating the Education Community
Throughout the evening, attendees heard inspiring stories from schools, trusts and education professionals who continue to overcome challenges, embrace innovation and deliver exceptional outcomes for children and young people.
The calibre of nominations across all categories demonstrated the strength, passion and dedication that exists throughout the education sector. While awards recognise individual achievements, they also highlight the collective efforts of teachers, support staff, leaders, governors and trust teams working together to make a positive difference every day.
Looking Ahead
At ECS, we are privileged to work alongside many outstanding schools and trusts across the country. Events such as the nEdEx Awards provide an important opportunity to recognise success, share best practice and celebrate the people whose work positively impacts future generations.
We would like to congratulate Summit Learning Trust, Liberty Academy Trust and Paston Ridings Primary School on their well-deserved awards, together with all finalists who were recognised during the evening.
We look forward to continuing to support the education sector and celebrating its achievements in the years ahead.
