Each year since 2008, an annual award has been made to recognise the contribution of an individual, who is external to the Union, who has been involved in campaigning on a national or local educational issue.
Previous award winners include the children’s author Michael Rosen; education activist Malala Yousafzai; Marcus Rashford, for his campaigning on free school meals; Madeleine Holt, co-founder of campaign group Rescue Our Schools; and journalist Mellissa Benn for championing the cause of comprehensive education.
How to make a nomination
Nominations for this year's award must be made by branches/districts by completing this form.
The closing date for nominations is Friday 17 January 2025.
Joint winners 2024
Hilda Palmer, former teacher and NUT member - joint winner of Fred and Anne Jarvis award 2024
“Truly inspirational” Hilda was recognised for her lifelong commitment to workers’ health and safety and for highlighting the many issues that cause injury, ill health and death at work. In 2006, she set up Families Against Corporate Killing (FACK), which supports the families of people who died at work and helps them seek justice and answers. She recently supported the family of Ruth Perry and raised awareness of the dangers of Ofsted.
She has worked alongside the NEU and other trade unions, delivering courses and presentations, and helping to challenge the Government and push for safer workplaces.
Julia Waters - joint winner of Fred and Anne Jarvis award 2024
The award recognises Julia’s tireless campaigning for the radical reform of Ofsted, following the suicide of her sister Ruth Perry.
Julia raised more than £50,000 through crowdfunding for Ruth’s inquest, after being denied legal aid. The coroner ruled that the Ofsted inspection had contributed to Ruth’s death. It led a pause in inspections, and updates to the handbook and training for inspectors around teacher wellbeing. A report, Prevention of Future Deaths, was issued to Ofsted by the coroner.
Speaking at annual conference 2024, Julia said: “This award is not for me, it’s for Ruth.”