What makes Anthony Gascoigne such a special teacher is his commitment to his students, to his local community and to his own continuing professional development.

In his role as catering and hospitality tutor at North Hertfordshire College, Gascoigne combines his knowledge of industry with his local and national contacts to inspire students to expand their own horizons. As a result, many of his students have gone on to compete in national competitions and now work in award-winning restaurants.

During lockdown, Gascoigne collaborated with the local community allotment, encouraging students to explore food provenance, and grow and cook food at home.

Dundee and Angus College win at the Tes FE Awards 2021

South Eastern Regional College wins at FE Awards 2021

Buxton and Leek College win at the Tes FE Awards 2021

In terms of his own development - and the development of the teachers around him - Gascoigne always goes the extra mile. In 2019-20, he became professional development lead and supported 15 members of staff from across the organisation to enhance employer engagement in the curriculum. He is also currently undertaking Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills status, as well as participating in the college’s internal Stars scheme for leadership development.

Lead judge Cindy Rampersaud said: “This category included many strong entries and picking a winner was not easy. But one person did stand out for his connections to industry, bringing those connections into the college to benefit students and creating aspirational pathways and placements for students into the world of work. Anthony also showed great innovation in the use of digital technology during Covid, including setting up a community allotment project, and continually focusing on his own CPD and peer working. A true inspiration and deserving winner.”

Charlotte Perchard, of Big Creative Academy, was also highly commended in this category for her work on diversity.