Four colleagues have each received a notable prize for their outstanding contribution to our mission, as part of the Futura Values Awards 2025.
Over 250 colleagues were nominated for a prize. An independent panel of judges faced the challenging task of narrowing down the strong pool and selecting a worthy winner for each of the ROCA values: Respect, Opportunity, Collaboration, and Aspiration. Eight colleagues received ‘highly commended’ certificates.
The Futura Values Awards are a new initiative and part of Futura’s drive to recruit, develop and retain amazing talent. Director of People & Organisation Development, Ady Tomsa, said: “At Futura, we’re incredibly grateful for how colleagues contribute to our mission of enabling every individual to flourish. Along with Colleague Appreciation Week, the Values Awards are a fun way to recognise and celebrate their amazing work.
“I’m delighted that so many colleagues were nominated for a values award. Congratulations to all nominees, especially our winners and those highly commended.
“Thank you to our judges. As someone fortunate enough to be on the panel, let me say whittling the 250 nominations down to a shortlist was tough, never mind choosing the four winners!
“And a big thank you to our partners, Affinity Workforce Solutions, Eteach, Neo People Management and Orange Moon, who sponsored the prizes. They have truly gone to very worthy winners.”
The Neo People Management award for Respect
Winner
Helen McElligott, Reception Manager at Chilton Trinity.
‘Helen consistently goes above and beyond in her role. She treats every student, parent and staff member with the same care and respect as if they were her own family. Her presence is a cornerstone of the school’s culture.’
Highly Commended
- Bridget Hedaux, Chilton Trinity
The Eteach award for Opportunity
Winner
Kate Payton, Drama Teacher at SBL
‘Kate has rejuvenated Drama at SBL. This year, she brought back the school musical, after a seven-year absence, with a bang with ‘School of Rock’. She has also reintroduced extra-curricular drama and is playing a key role in re-launching GCSE drama. All this in her second ECT year!’
Highly Commended
- Paul Cadmor, Chilton Trinity
- Terri Loader, Willowdown
The Affinity Workforce Solutions award for Collaboration
Winner
John Berry, AV technician, Professional Services
‘John was incredibly helpful for the entirety of the Collaboration Day. There were several IT snags which John fixed with ease. He helped whoever needed IT support. I haven’t forgotten how genuine and friendly he is, nor how integral he was to the running of the Collaboration Day.’
Highly Commended
- Clare Barclay, IKB
- Terri Loader, Willowdown
- Nikki Buglass, Professional Services
- Claire Weeks, Wellsway
The Orange Moon award for Aspiration
Winner
Laura Brown, Deputy Headteacher at Puriton.
‘Laura has consistently gone out of her way this year to go above and beyond! Not only supporting Puriton in her role as Deputy Headteacher, Maths Lead, ECT Mentor and EYFS Class Teacher, but also across the trust as Futura Maths Lead. She is always positive, proactive and carries the children in the forefront of all that she does.’
Highly Commended
- Michelle Atwood, Puriton
- Chantelle May, Willowdown
