Kate Hennessy-Garside receives first Alison Wilkinson Award for excellence in research
On the final day of the autumn term, Mr Henneberry proudly presented the first Alison Wilkinson Award for Excellence in Research, which recognises high-quality research-informed teaching practice.
The award is named in memory of Dr Alison Wilkinson, a passionate educator and researcher whose work supported schools, teachers and young people across our region. Alison believed strongly in research that made a real difference in classrooms, and this award reflects that same commitment to improving students’ everyday experiences.
Mr Henneberry said:
“The inaugural award went to Kate Hennessy-Garside, whose work on feedback and classroom culture had a clear and positive impact on her students. Kate explored how feedback, praise and routines shape how young people feel in lessons, how confident they are to contribute, and how effectively they learn.”
Drawing on educational research, coaching conversations, student voice and careful testing in lessons, Kate refined her approach throughout the year. Importantly, this research focused on creating classrooms where students felt calmer, more supported, and more ready to learn.
Nowhere were the results of this clearer than in her Year 10 class. What began as a challenging group with a difficult classroom climate became noticeably more settled, positive and purposeful. Students benefited from clearer expectations, more meaningful feedback and a stronger sense of trust and consistency, all of which helped them engage more confidently and make better progress in lessons.
Kate’s work is a strong example of research-informed teaching at its best here at Dallam: thoughtful, practical and focused on what will help students succeed day to day.
We were also very pleased to share this moment with Alison’s family, who received the photograph from the presentation. They replied:
“Aww, this is beautiful 🤩… wonderful Christmas gift ❤️ Thank you so much for thinking of us and sharing, it’s brought a lot of comfort, and I know Alison would be so proud!”
Congratulations to Kate on receiving the inaugural award, and thank you for the difference you have made to your students and to Dallam.
