The University of Wolverhampton has been crowned HEI of the Year at the NASBTT Awards 2026. The award recognises its inclusive approach to teacher training, collaborative school partnerships, and commitment to developing the region’s teaching workforce.
The award celebrates Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) delivering high-quality training and making a meaningful contribution to the education system. Judges praised the University’s active commitment to partnership working, highlighting its creative approach to connecting university learning with school placements, responsive mentor development, and opportunities for partners to shape provision. They also recognised its targeted approach to teacher recruitment and potential contribution to the wider sector.
The University’s Initial Teacher Training (ITT) provision is guided by its School of Education ambition for teaching excellence: “Be Informed, Be Inspiring, Be Influential”, and values of being “Professional, Honest and Kind”. Reflection is embedded throughout modules, assessments, and Intensive Training and Practice (ITAP), with Placement Bulletins helping mentors connect university learning with trainees’ experiences in schools.
Working with partners across all four phases of ITT, including nurseries, mainstream and special schools, and further education providers, the University tailors its curriculum and mentor development pathways to the needs of diverse communities, primarily within the West Midlands. Strategic Partnership Groups facilitate collaboration and shared programme development.
Professor Diana Bannister, Head of the School of Education and Social Work, stated: “This is brilliant news for the School of Education reflecting the hard work of our staff and mentors who provide support, honest feedback and our commitment to inclusive practice, ensuring that our trainees are reflective practitioners and true professionals.” Laura Jude, Deputy Head of the School of Education and Social Work, added: "We are thrilled to have received this award. Our success is shared by our fantastic network of partners and our joint commitment to teaching excellence for the communities they serve."
Emma Hollis, CEO of NASBTT, congratulated the winners, noting the sector's resilience and the importance of recognising those who support teacher training. The NASBTT Awards 2026, sponsored by Mosaic, recognised achievements across seven categories, judged by experienced professionals from the ITT sector and wider education community.
