Inspirational Pontefract headteacher wins national award

James Parkinson, headteacher of De Lacy Primary School has been announced as the Gold Winner of the Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School category in the 2025 Pearson National Teaching Awards.

Under Mr Parkinson’s leadership, De Lacy offers a varied curriculum incorporating unique initiatives to "future proof” pupils and better equip them to cope with life in modern Britain.

This includes Future Fridays, where professionals inspire pupils with their career journeys, and 50 Learning Experiences, which range from first aid, enterprise, and ecological projects, helping young students tick off valuable life experiences at an earlier age.

Mr Parkinson was selected from thousands of nominees for his leadership and initiatives aimed at empowering pupils to succeed.

Paul Matthias, national education director at Hays – sponsor of the Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School – said: “We would like to offer James a huge congratulations as this year’s gold winner of the Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School category.

"His leadership and commitment to De Lacy Primary School has transformed its reputation and instilled confidence in pupils, encouraging them to dream big and achieve their goals.”

The Pearson National Teaching Awards is an annual celebration that honours the achievements and impact of educators.

A awards ceremony will be held at the Brewery in Central London on Saturday, November 29, bringing together Silver Winners across 16 categories and special guests, including Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson.

Ms Phillipson said: “Teachers and school staff are the heart of our education system, inspiring young people and helping them to achieve and thrive.

"These awards are a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact great educators have, because the path to national renewal runs through our schools.

"My warmest congratulations to all of this year’s winners and nominees – your hard work, care, and commitment shape futures, and I’m proud to work with you to break down barriers to opportunity.”

Sharon Hague, Pearson UK chief executive, said: “Behind every confident student or changed life, there’s an educator who made it possible.

"The Pearson National Teaching Awards shines a spotlight on the inspiring individuals whose influence has gone far beyond the classroom.”