A TEACHER from Whitehaven Academy has bagged an 'outstanding teacher award' at a national event.

Jo Fowler, business, creative media and computing curriculum lead at The Whitehaven Academy (TWA), won an Outstanding Teacher Award at the National Cyber Security Centre’s annual Cyber Security Education Ecosystem Conference.

Jo was nominated by IN4 Group as their CyberFirst partner to represent teachers in the North West of England, and has been recognized for her contributions to the field of cybersecurity education.

The conference, which was held over two days at The Queens Hotel in Leeds, brought together key stakeholders from academic, commercial, government, and teaching communities. It featured a diverse range of formats, including talks, workshops, panel sessions, and hands-on practical sessions, encouraging collaboration and relationship-building within the cybersecurity education space.

One of the highlights of the event was the Gala Dinner held on Wednesday March 12, where achievements across the community were celebrated. Jo’s dedication and expertise undoubtedly contributed to her well-deserved recognition.

Nigel Youngman, headteacher at TWA, commented: "Jo is a digital powerhouse. She inspires staff and students alike to embrace new opportunities and discover new worlds.

"Coding, robotics, cyber security and creative media have become aspects of so many students’ lives, thanks to her wonderful, tireless positivity. This award is richly deserved.”

Jo added: “I was incredibly surprised and honoured to win this award. Thank you so much to the CyberFirst team”.

Cumbria Education Trust said: "Congratulations Jo on this remarkable achievement, we are very proud of you."