Mulberry Academy Hastings teacher named finalist in national teaching award
Mulberry Academy Hastings is celebrating a major national recognition after one of its teachers, Joseph Saubolle, was named as a finalist in the 2026 Pearson National Teaching Awards.
Joseph has been shortlisted as a finalist in the highly competitive Outstanding New Teacher of the Year category, placing him among the very best emerging educators across the country.
Since joining the academy, Joseph has made an exceptional impact that extends far beyond the classroom. He has been instrumental in establishing the school’s automotive workshop provision, creating a high-quality, hands-on learning environment that is already transforming engagement and outcomes for students.
This innovative provision has played a key role in reshaping the academy’s careers offer, ensuring that students have access to meaningful, aspirational pathways that connect education with real-world opportunities. Joseph’s work has directly contributed to the academy securing its Careers Award in 2025, a significant milestone in the school’s ongoing improvement journey.
But his ambition does not stop there; looking ahead, Joseph is now leading plans to launch an exciting new aviation pathway, which will give students the opportunity to begin learning to fly as part of their school experience, an extraordinary opportunity that reflects the academy’s commitment to broadening horizons and raising aspirations.
Simon Addison, Principal of Mulberry Academy Hastings, said: “Joseph represents everything we stand for at Mulberry Academy Hastings: ambition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our students.
“In a very short space of time, he has transformed opportunities for our young people, particularly through our automotive provision, and has played a significant role in strengthening our careers programme.
“To now be developing an aviation pathway for our students speaks volumes about his vision and drive. This recognition at a national level is richly deserved, and we are incredibly proud of him.”
The Pearson National Teaching Awards celebrate excellence across the education sector, recognising those who make a real difference to the lives of young people.
This recognition comes at a time of significant success for Mulberry Academy Hastings. Over the past year, the academy has seen marked improvements in both attendance and academic outcomes, with students now achieving an Attainment 8 score that reflects on average, every student achieving one grade higher in every GCSE subject compared to two years ago.
This nomination also marks the second national recognition for the academy this year, following its selection as a finalist in the Innovator of the Year category at the National Schools Awards earlier this academic year which were held at the House of Lords.
Together, these achievements highlight a school firmly on the rise, driven by a shared commitment to excellence, opportunity, and delivering the very best outcomes for its students.