Peterborough students and staff celebrated at annual kindness awards

On Thursday 2nd July 2026, students and staff from Thomas Deacon Education Trust (TDET) gathered at the Church of St John the Baptist in Peterborough for the annual Act of Kindness Awards.

The ceremony, organised in partnership with the Thomas Deacon Foundation, continues the legacy of the 18th-century wool merchant Thomas Deacon. While his original gift aimed to provide educational opportunities for local children, the event now brings together hundreds of attendees to celebrate those who continue that spirit of service by supporting their peers and school communities.

Scott Hudson, Chief Executive of Thomas Deacon Education Trust, said: The Acts of Kindness Awards are a true highlight of the TDET year, and it’s a privilege to celebrate them once again. I’d like to share my huge congratulations to everyone who was recognised for their efforts today, and to the many more across our Trust who show such compassion and generosity every day.

Seeing the kindness of our students and staff reminds us of why we do what we do. Thank you to everyone who makes this culture of kindness possible."

Musical interludes from students Megan (Queen Katharine Academy), Louis (Thomas Deacon Academy), and Naya (Queen Katharine Academy) complemented the presentations throughout the evening. Following an opening address from the Vicar of Peterborough, Revd Michelle Dalliston, and Scott Hudson, the spotlight shifted to the Academy Awards.

Principals from each of TDET’s seven academies took to the stage to present certificates to those who have become synonymous with support, inclusion, and care, celebrating culture where empathy is valued as highly as academic success.

The stories behind this year’s winners were as diverse as they were heart-warming. In the classrooms, pupils were recognised for achievements ranging from mentoring younger students with autism to acting as passionate advocates for animal welfare and nature. Amina, from Richard Barnes Academy, also received a Mentoring award for her exceptional support of her peers. Other students were honoured for organising school-wide fundraising events for animal charities or spearheading winter campaigns to support local food banks.

Well-deserved recognition also extended to the staff members who form the backbone of these school communities. Principals highlighted teachers and support staff who have gone above and beyond to create inclusive environments, from implementing new wellbeing initiatives like anonymous kindness schemes to providing steady, daily support for pupils navigating complex personal challenges. Whether it was a student offering a reassuring smile to a classmate or a long-serving staff member who has become a mentor to generations of pupils, each winner demonstrated that kindness is a daily practice, not just an occasional gesture.

The Thomas Deacon Foundation Awards showcased the wider influence of the Trust’s community. This year’s recipients were selected for their ability to turn compassion into tangible change:

Community Spirit: Annabel and Weronika, both from Thomas Deacon Academy, were recognised for their leadership with Living Sport, contributing to a project set to benefit thousands of young people in the region. Elsewhere, Denise Heard, based at Richard Barnes Academy, was honoured for her role in organising a respectful memorial, bringing a community together during a time of immense personal loss.

Mentoring and Support: Amina, a student at Richard Barnes Academy, was recognised for leading an eight-week programme at Manor Drive Secondary Academy. By helping students reflect on their choices and future goals, she helped them engage better with their schoolwork. Amina is now continuing this positive work as a dedicated Wellbeing Mentor for her fellow students at Richard Barnes Academy.

Fundraising Achievements: Ingenuity and determination defined this year’s fundraising efforts. A group of Year 5 pupils from Warboys Primary Academy – Phoebe, Thea, Maisie, Amilie, Georgia, Lily, and Aurelia – successfully raised funds for the RSPCA through their dedicated teamwork.

Meanwhile, at Richard Barnes Academy, student Josh and Assistant Principal James Fletcher captured the imagination of their school community by shaving their heads to raise significant support for Prostate Cancer Research.

Health and Wellbeing: The importance of resilience and practical support was central to this category. Bobby, from Thomas Deacon Academy, was celebrated for his commitment to mastering and sharing lifesaving skills, while the Guided Futures Team at Queen Katharine Academy earned special mention for their consistent work in creating a safe environment for vulnerable pupils.

John Turner, Chair of the Thomas Deacon Foundation, concluded the evening by reflecting on the collective impact of the winners. He said: “Every year, I am inspired by the kindness shown across our academies. These awards are a testament to the fact that meaningful change is built on the foundation of everyday goodwill. I would like to thank everyone who made tonight possible, particularly Beth Williams for her coordination and creative vision, our catering team for their hard work in supporting the event, and the team at St John's Church for hosting us.”

For more information about the Thomas Deacon Education Trust and its academies, please visit: www.tdet.education.