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Celebrating the everyday heroes at Lift Schools
2 July 2026
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The 2026 Lift Schools’ Modelling Maxims campaign has once again highlighted the deep dedication of colleagues across our network.

Since launching three years ago, the campaign has received nearly 5,000 lifetime nominations - offering an annual opportunity to champion those who consistently bring our mission to life: an excellent education for every child, in every classroom, every day.

Each submission tells a powerful story of commitment from teachers, leaders, and support and operational staff whose efforts directly improve students' lives and set an inspiring example for us all.

From this year’s nominees, 30 exceptional individuals were shortlisted, with the campaign placing a special spotlight on the Individuals Matter maxim. 

We proudly celebrated staff dedicated to breaking down barriers, amplifying diverse voices, and ensuring every child feels heard, valued, and included.

At an awards dinner in Leeds, Lift Schools CEO Becks Boomer-Clark said that selecting this year’s winners from such an impressive pool of nominees was an incredibly difficult task.

Omer Ba’alawi, caretaker at Lift Percy Shurmer

Omer works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the school is safe, welcoming, and ready for every child and adult each day. He builds warm, respectful relationships with pupils, staff, and families to support the school’s diverse community. Through his dedication, kindness, and leadership, Omer helps ensure every individual truly feels they belong.

Nosa Odion-Imafidon, Lift Four Dwellings Secondary
Nosa is recognised throughout Four Dwellings as an exceptional educator who transforms the way students see mathematics. Driven by a genuine belief that sharing his passion for the subject is both a pleasure and a privilege, he works tirelessly to unlock the absolute best outcomes for students of all backgrounds and abilities.

Sarah Woods, Lift Kingswood
Through collaborative work with families and valuing student voice, she creates a supportive environment where all learners feel recognised and able to succeed.
Julie Maundrill, ELSA at Lift Newington

Julie is a dedicated ELSA who nurtures the mental health and well-being of vulnerable children with deep patience and empathy. Her exceptional care is making a lasting difference across the entire Newington school community.
Vik Gomeniuk, Lift Green Way
Vik brilliantly supports our most vulnerable pupils, focusing deeply on their emotional and social development so they feel safe and ready to learn.
Our 2026 Modelling Maxims winners!

Congratulations to all our winners!

  • Sophie Lucraft Mee, Lift Broadlands 
  • Dan Nugent, Lift Ryde
  • Harriet Reynolds, Lift Maltings 
  • Danielle Bee, Lift Clacton
  • Sadie Dean, Lift Clacton
  • Algun Bibi, Lift Tamworth 
  • Nosa Odion-Imafidon, Lift Four Dwellings Primary 
  • Mitchell Ridout, Lift Bexleyheath 
  • Miranda Bartholomeou, Lift Richmond Park 
  • Noreen Akhtar, Lift Beacon High
  • Sarah Woods, Lift Kingswood 
  • Julie Traynor, Lift Kingsley
  • Angela Baker, Lift Barton Hill 
  • Cheryl Boers, Lift Crescent View 
  • Monica Alonso, Lift Wishmore 
  • Craig Pryer, Lift Tendring 
  • Rob Bailey, Lift Montgomery 
  • Philip Brown, Lift Anglesey
  • Omer Ba'alawi, Lift Percy Shurmer
  • Vik Gomeniuk, Lift Green Way 
  • Olivia Joyce, Lift Meadstead 
  • Debbie Bainbridge, Lift Hall Road
  • Julie Maundrill, Lift Newington 
  • James Little, Lift St Helens 
  • Karen Sutcliffe, Lift Cottingley
  • Rosie Greatorex, Lift New Forest 
  • Emma Cannon, Lift Hamford 
  • Liz Hurrell, Lift Charles Warren 
  • Anne Arnold, Lift Rawlett 
  • Becky Fannon, Lift St James the Great

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