We won! A proud moment for our College community

William Henry Smith Specialist College staff receiving the Kathryn Rudd Award on stage

(Pictured above - left to right: Jim Aleander, Chair of the Natspec Awards Judging Panel, Mark Finch (Kathryn Rudd's husband), Paul Leeming, Lecturer, William Henry Smith Specialist College (WHSSC), Steven Fawthrop, Teaching and Learning Lead (WHSSC), Laura Robinson, Vice Principal, Education, Sarah Kaler, Vice Principal Head of Business, Finance & Operations and Sonia Stewart, Business Lead (WHSSC))

We are delighted to announce that William Henry Smith Specialist College has officially won the Kathryn Rudd Innovator of the Year Award at the NATSPEC Awards 2026.

The NATSPEC Awards celebrate outstanding and innovative practice across the Specialist Further Education sector. With seven categories highlighting initiatives that improve outcomes for SEND students across the UK, this year’s competition was exceptionally strong with nearly 60 entries submitted, showcasing remarkable creativity and commitment across the sector.

Our award-winning project, “Rolling the Dice,” grew from the College’s Dungeons & Dragons club, which over the past three years has evolved into a powerful learning tool. Through storytelling, character building, and collaborative problem-solving, students have developed confidence in speaking, sharing ideas, and working together.

The project has strengthened friendships, improved teamwork, and fostered respect for different perspectives, helping to create a deeper sense of belonging across the College community.

“This is a creative and original approach to linking several curriculum areas, personal development, and the opportunity to explore emotions in a safe and structured way. Student involvement was fundamental to the project, resulting in excellent engagement and sustained improvements in attendance, motivation, and skills development. The extent of involvement with external groups was excellent, building on students’ needs and interests.”

Nigel Evans, NATSPEC Category Judge

The award trophy was designed and produced by students at Beaumont College.

Paul Leeming, Creative Arts Teacher, Steven Fawthrop, Teaching and Learning Lead, and Sonia Stewart, Business Lead, represented the College at the awards, where they joined six other category winners to compete for the prestigious Kathryn Rudd Innovator of the Year Award.

“This is a superb achievement for the College and showcases the creativity, commitment, and collaboration across our community. ‘Rolling the Dice’ demonstrates how visionary thinking can empower students and help their social confidence to blossom.”

Simon Cotton, Head of College

We extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Paul Leeming and all the staff and students whose creativity and dedication made this success possible. As part of the award, the College also featured in a national video celebrating all the winners.