The awards brought together finalists, families, professionals, volunteers, community organisations, partners, sponsors, civic leaders, and MPs for an evening dedicated to exceptional commitment, kindness and achievement.
The celebrations recognised achievements in sport, health and wellbeing, partnership working, education, safeguarding, SEND, innovation, volunteering and youth voice, as well as lifelong service and individuals who have gone above and beyond as champions for children.
The glittering event was held at the Peterborough Marriott Hotel where guests enjoyed a drinks reception, dinner and entertainment provided by young people from Peterborough, including the Peterborough Centre for Young Musicians, young people from the House Project and the Ormiston Bushfield Academy Choir.
The awards were made possible by sponsors Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, Morgan Sindall Construction, Lindum and Mohammed Farooq.
Afterwards, Councillor Katy Cole, cabinet member for children’s services at Peterborough City Council, said: “The Children’s Spark Awards are our opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to the remarkable people who give so much to children, young people and families across Peterborough.
“Every finalist and winner represents the care, determination and partnership that exists across our city.
"Their work helps children feel safe, supported, included and able to fulfil their potential, and it was a privilege to celebrate them together.
"Congratulations to everyone recognised and thank you to all those who make a difference every day.”
The 2026 winners:
Voluntary Sector Star: Culture Community, for empowering and educating young people on Black history and culture through a welcoming Saturday School programme.
Innovation in Practice: Naomi and Hannah Moxon, Reflections Classical, for one-to-one vocal coaching that inspires confidence in children and helps them find their voice.
Health and Wellbeing: Sarah Jessop, William Law CE Primary School, for transforming mental health and wellbeing support at William Law Primary School, taking time to understand what each child needs.
Lifelong Service: Heather Magee, Southfields Primary School, for her outstanding 34 years of service across inclusion teams, safeguarding, enhanced resources for speech, language and communication needs and more.
Sports Hero: Bilal Javed, Top Yard Boxing, for coaching that teaches mental and physical wellbeing, going above and beyond to make the students feel comfortable and supported.
Outstanding Team: Special Connexions, for social opportunities that help over 16s with additional needs to make friends, learn skills and do the things they love.
Teacher of the Year: Vicky Bowman, Discovery Primary Academy, for her exceptional leadership, dedication and commitment to improving outcomes for children through reading.
Children’s Champion: The Woman You Are (TWYA), for workshops, activities and programmes that inspire young women and children, nurture their development and help them gain confidence and skills.
SEND Hero: Jill Edwards, Inspire Education Group, for passionately advocating for SEND voices, giving young people the support they need for a prosperous education.
Education Award: Greater Peterborough UTC, for its innovative work to get young people onto fulfilling careers paths using placements, partnerships and a positive, creative environment.
Partnership Excellence: Cold Water Shock, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, Cambridgeshire Police and Peterborough City Council, for a powerful short film that highlights the dangers of open water and aims to prevent further tragedies following the death of 16-year-old Jack Lloyd.
Safeguarding Award: Clare Post, William Law CE Primary, for using her collaboration skills, targeted safeguarding support and commitment to create a joined-up approach to protecting young people.
Young Person’s Voice: Arif Hasham, for building trusting relationships with vulnerable young asylum seekers and helping them find opportunities and a high quality of life.
Young Person’s Award: Jackson Clarke, for being a rock to his mother after the passing of his father, and for his resilience and bravery.
Special Recognition Award: Jason Fenn, for his work with children and young people and his considerable efforts to transform the way practitioners communicate with them.
Special Recognition Award: Peterborough House Project, for its outstanding work supporting young care leavers.
