Three staff members from The Bedford College Group are celebrating after winning top honours at the Milton Keynes Education Awards 2026.
English lecturer Rose Sargent and computing lecturer Christian Núñez Fuentes, both based at Bedford College, secured individual teaching titles.
Ashley Spiers, the group head of equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging, won the EDI champion of the year category.
Recognising local educators
Sargent received the English teacher of the year award for her work helping students build up their communication skills and overcome previous educational challenges.
Núñez Fuentes took home the IT teacher of the year award after being praised for connecting classroom learning with real-world experience in the digital industry.
The judges named Spiers the EDI champion of the year for his leadership in developing a more inclusive environment across the college campuses.
Staff achievements
Speaking about the success, Dr Robin Webber-Jones, deputy CEO and executive director of curriculum, said he was “delighted”.
“These awards celebrate the very best in education, and it is fantastic to see Rose, Christian and Ashley receive recognition for the difference they make every day,” he said.
“Their dedication extends far beyond their individual roles. They inspire confidence, create opportunities and help ensure that every student has the support they need to achieve their potential.
“We are incredibly proud of their achievements, and of the positive impact they continue to have on our students, colleagues and communities.”
Two other local teachers, Emmanuel Amissah, also reached the finals after being shortlisted in the maths and STEM teacher of the year categories.
