15 inspirational individuals from schools across St Joseph Catholic Multi Academy Trust (SJCMAT) were honoured at the Transforming Lives Awards, which was hosted by the trust at The Edge in Wigan.

 

Over 800 colleagues gathered at the venue as part of a unique trust-wide conference and awards ceremony. The event was an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and incredible work of staff members from the 2025/2026 academic year.

 

There were 15 award categories ranging from the Estates and Facilities Award and the Governance Award to the Early Career Teacher Award and the Cross-Trust Collaboration Award.

 

Among this year’s winners was Louisa Mavris, cleaner and catering assistant, who received the Estates and Facilities Award for her outstanding dedication to creating a welcoming school environment at St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Academy. Her colleagues praised her exceptional attention to detail, friendly approach and willingness to go above and beyond to support the school community.

​

Business support officer, Alison McLoughlin from St Nicholas Catholic Academy, was recognised with the Business Operations Award for her professionalism and compassionate support for families. As one of the first points of contact for new families, Alison was celebrated for making people feel welcome and valued, as well as providing reassurance and support during difficult times.

 

The Cross-Trust Collaboration Award went to head of finance, Darren Melling from the trust central team, in recognition of his work to make the best use of resources and strengthen partnerships across the trust. His colleagues highlighted his commitment to securing funding opportunities, sharing expertise and building positive relationships between schools to support the trust’s wider mission.

 

Heloise Serrels, assistant headteacher at Notre Dame Catholic Academy, received the Secondary Leader Award for her exceptional leadership and contribution to transforming the school’s culture. Her nomination highlighted her commitment to high expectations, restorative practice and creating a safe, respectful environment where every young person has the opportunity to succeed.

​

The final award of the day went to Andrew Doyle, assistant headteacher at St Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Academy, who was presented with the Christ at the Centre Award. Recognised for his 100 per cent commitment to Catholic life and mission, Andrew was praised for his encouragement, positivity and practical support in helping students create meaningful experiences that connect their faith with everyday life.

​

Launched in 2025, the awards and conference celebrate the incredible work of colleagues across the St Joseph CMAT family who are dedicated to transforming children’s lives through a world-class Catholic education.

 

The event was hosted by two alumni of Notre Dame Catholic Academy and featured a warm welcome from the chair of the Trust, Ann Connor OBE, an introduction from CEO, Andrew Truby, and a keynote address from Tim Buckle, former professional cyclist and member of the Chimp Management team, working with Professor Steve Peters, author of The Chimp Paradox.

 

Entertainment was provided by the Trust choir, who delighted the audience with a medley of songs from Oliver! The Musical.

 

Speaking about the day, Andrew Truby, said: “The Transforming Lives Awards are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the remarkable people who make St Joseph CMAT such a special family of schools. Every day, our colleagues go above and beyond to support our children, inspire a love of learning and ensure every young person has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.

​

“From the classroom to the teams working behind the scenes, each person plays a vital role in delivering our shared mission of transforming lives through a world-class Catholic education. It’s fantastic to see the hard work and commitment of our award winners recognised, and I’m proud that we can come together to celebrate everything they do for our schools, the wider trust family and local communities.”