Educate Awards announces Helen Stevenson as new judge for 2026

Educate Awards has bolstered its esteemed judging panel this year with the addition of education expert, Helen Stevenson.

With a career spanning over 20 years in education, Helen is the co-founder of Satis Education, the sector’s leading executive recruitment organisation, and chief executive officer of Transforming Lives Educational Trust where she is responsible for the growth strategy and governance of the trust.

At the heart of Helen’s work is a commitment to driving educational excellence and empowering leaders to create high-performing organisations that deliver meaningful outcomes for pupils and students.

Commenting on the announcement, Helen said:

“I am thrilled to join the Educate Awards’ judging panel and celebrate the achievements of schools, colleges and multi academy trusts across the North West. I look forward to using my experience and passion to recognise the wonderful work taking place across the region.”

Helen’s journey in education began when she relocated back to the North West and retrained as a modern foreign languages teacher. She had initially remained in London after graduating from Kings College to work within marketing and PR departments for large corporations such as the Financial Times Group and Associate Newspapers.

During her time as a teacher in Knowsley, Helen became involved in academies and free schools programmes. Since 2008 she has worked extensively across the multi academy trust (MAT) sector. She has held positions within the Department for Education, local authorities and several MATs.

In 2017, Helen co-founded Satis Education, a national education consultancy providing expert support to trusts on the recruitment of CEOs, operational leaders, principals, headteachers, and staff at all levels.

However, she returned to her roots in September 2025, taking up the position of chief executive officer at Transforming Lives Educational Trust. The trust is home to four academies and specialises in forward-thinking, innovative teaching practices.

Throughout her career and alongside her executive leadership roles, Helen has also served as chair of a trust board, local advisory group and an outstanding Catholic sixth form college.

With the addition of Helen, the Educate Awards’ independent judging panel now comprises 15 highly respected, hand-selected individuals, each bringing their own experience and expertise.

Founder of Educate Awards, Kim O’Brien, said:

“I am delighted to welcome Helen Stevenson to Educate Awards’ judging panel for 2026.

“Helen brings a wealth of experience from across the education sector, along with a deep understanding of leadership, governance and school improvement. Her insight and passion for supporting schools and trusts to thrive will be invaluable as we shine a spotlight on the outstanding achievements taking place across the North West.”