County Derry educator revealed as Outstanding New Teacher of the Year on BBC's The One Show

Ciara Mulholland, of Saint Patrick’s College, Maghera, has been recognised as the Gold Winner of the Outstanding New Teacher of the Year in the 2024 Pearson National Teaching Awards, considered the ‘Oscars’ of the teaching profession.

The exclusive reveal was featured on last night’s BBC’s The One Show, ahead of a glittering awards ceremony this weekend. 

An inspiring new science teacher, Ciara is committed to encouraging girls into STEM fields. She supports the school’s study skills programme, as well as running a popular after-school science club.

Alongside her work in the classroom, Ciara helps train the senior camogie team, who reached the All-Ireland finals in 2023, and volunteers at the local primary school’s STEM programme.

Ciara learned of her outstanding award win during a visit from The One Show’s Ryan Hand who revealed the news alongside her former camogie teammates. The unexpected celebrations included a surprise performance from singer, Ryan McMullan, for the whole community.

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

The Pearson National Teaching Awards is an annual celebration that honours the outstanding 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 are an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.

The remaining winners will be announced across the week on The One Show (7 pm, BBC One) and at the prestigious awards ceremony. The glittering evening, 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, to share experiences and celebrate their achievements. 

Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, says: “The impact of a great teacher can be life-changing. We can all remember that one teacher who influenced our lives, whether it was just in that moment or something that we have carried with us. That’s why these awards are so important. The devotion of all of those who work in education is clear from the entries we receive year after year, and 2024 was no different. I am delighted to be able to congratulate all of this year’s Pearson National Teaching Award winners. Their exceptional efforts continue to inspire us and enrich the young lives they impact daily.”

Sharon Hague, Managing Director of School Assessment and Qualifications at Pearson UK, says: “It is an honour and privilege to be able to recognise and celebrate all of those who work in education. The impact that teachers have on students is undeniable, and so too is the hard work and dedication that educators show each day. Congratulations to all of the winners and a huge thank you.”

Eve Bremner, Chief Executive of CCMS, says: “On behalf of CCMS, I would like to congratulate Ciara for receiving this prestigious award. Teachers can make such a difference in a child’s life, igniting a love of learning and nurturing their self-belief. Ciara has already proven herself to be a role model for her pupils in St Patrick’s College, particularly through her inspiring and engaging teaching in science and STEM. She also contributes enthusiastically to delivering the wider curriculum in the school and to the local community. Our thanks to Ciara for all her hard work and we wish her well in her continued teaching career.”

Helen Davies, editor of Parent Power at the Sunday Times, Sponsor of the Award for Outstanding New Teacher says: “This year’s gold winner has brought fresh ideas to her school, galvanising and inspiring not just their students, but the whole school community. Ciara’s enthusiasm is encouraging girls in both sports and STEM subjects inside and outside the classroom. We are thrilled to acknowledge Ciara’s hard work, dedication, and passion for education as sponsors of the Outstanding New Teacher Award.”

With an inspiring lineup of winners in 2024, there is now an opportunity for educators across the country to be recognised in the 2025 Pearson National Teaching Awards. Entries are open and submissions can be made through the Pearson National Teaching Awards website.