Yorkshire educator revealed as winner of prestigious UK Teaching Award on BBC's The One Show

Gosia Watts, teacher at Outwood Primary Academy Park Hill, has been recognised as the Gold Winner of the Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School, in the 2025 Pearson National Teaching Awards, considered the ‘Oscars’ of the teaching profession. The exclusive reveal was mentioned last night on BBC’s The One Show, ahead of a glamorous awards ceremony taking place this weekend. 

Originally from Poland, Gosia began her UK journey working in factories before realising her dream of becoming a teacher. Now Assistant Principal at Outwood Primary Academy Park Hill, she brings her passion for sustainability and the arts into every aspect of school life. She has created green, therapeutic spaces such as the Forest School and sensory garden to support pupils with SEN, and has led creative projects that even saw her class’s artwork exhibited in the National Gallery.  

Gosia was surprised by Sabre from Gladiators with news of her gold win, along with a special message from Gardeners’ World presenter Monty Don, set up in recognition of her gardening passion. 

Selected from thousands of nominees, the Yorkshire-based educator has been recognised for her exceptional contribution to both students and the wider community.

The Pearson National Teaching Awards are an annual celebration that honours the incredible achievements and transformative impact of educators. Run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity, and sponsored by Pearson, the world’s lifelong learning company, the awards shine a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.

Winners will continue to be announced across the week on The One Show (7 pm, BBC One and iPlayer) and at the prestigious awards ceremony on Saturday 29th November. The glittering evening, held at The Brewery in Central London, will be hosted by TV presenter and broadcaster Gaby Roslin and will bring together Silver Winners across 16 categories, alongside industry peers, colleagues and special guests, including Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson. 

Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, says:

“Education is built on the steady, often unseen work of dedicated individuals - teachers and school staff who show up every day to make a difference. The Pearson National Teaching Awards give us the chance to recognise and celebrate that commitment. This year’s entries were, once again, full of powerful stories of creativity and care. My congratulations to all of this year’s winners, you remind us what a vital role education plays in shaping lives and futures.”

Sharon Hague, CEO, Pearson UK, says:

“Behind every confident student or changed life, there’s an educator who made it possible. The Pearson National Teaching Awards shines a spotlight on the inspiring individuals whose influence has gone far beyond the classroom. This is a celebration of excellence at the highest level, and we are thrilled to be able to recognise these achievements. Congratulations to all of this year’s Gold Winners!”

Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, says:

“Teachers and school staff are the heart of our education system, inspiring young people and helping them to achieve and thrive. These awards are a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact great educators have, because the path to national renewal runs through our schools. My warmest congratulations to all of this year’s winners and nominees – your hard work, care, and commitment shape futures, and I’m proud to work with you to break down barriers to opportunity.”

Sadie Besley, Divisional Managing Director - Professional Talent Solutions UK & Ireland at Randstad, Sponsor of The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School says:

“A truly great primary school teacher builds more than knowledge; they build confident learners and strong communities. Gosia’s work is a powerful example of this in action. Their commitment has left an indelible mark not just on their pupils, but on the entire fabric of the school and its community. All of us at Randstad are thrilled to see such a profoundly deserving winner receive this recognition. Congratulations, Gosia!”