Donegal-born educator won silver at the Pearson National Teaching Awards in London

Pamela Brown, a Donegal-born prison educator and lecturer, has won silver at the Pearson National Teaching Awards in the UK and had her portrait, titled "Transforming Futures through Education," featured in a London art gallery to celebrate her nomination.

Yvonne Brown, a former local election independent candidate in Leitrim, stepped into the frame to represent her sister at London's 'All is Joy Gallery event.'

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so I felt it important to support the inclusion of Pamela's portrait," Yvonne said.

"I will be returning to London for the final. I wouldn't miss it," she added.

A North West Regional College lecturer, Pamela Brown, is also a writer-in-residence at HMP Magilligan. She edits the prison magazine Time-In. Discussing her work, she said, "Being a prison educator is challenging, and also gives opportunities to highlight the positive work that educators do in prison, which is vital.

"I'm so thankful to my sister, who attended the exhibition on my behalf," she said.

Pamela's portrait has an exhibition note describing the achievements leading to the award because of "her further education lecturer, North West Regional College, Derry.

"Shortlisted for FE Lecturer of the Year. Educator at HMP Magilligan since 2011, excels in delivering Open College Network (OCN) accreditation.

"Remarkably, her prison students have achieved a 100% completion rate, a testament to her dedication. Pamela recognises the power of creative writing within prison walls, helping inmates re-evaluate themselves, maintain family connections, and navigate challenging relationships during their confinement."

The launch on November 13 foregrounds the 16 Gold Winners Awards to be announced (November 25) at the annual Pearson National Teaching Awards Ceremony in London. It will be featured on BBC's The One Show.

All Silver Award winners have been shortlisted for a Gold Award. The Pearson representatives explained that "the ceremony is held to highlight the impact of education and to honour inspirational teachers and support staff selected from thousands of nominations."

Donna Bridgewater, photographer, teacher, and educator from Coventry, photographed the educators in their working environment.

"I hope my work gives visitors a rare insight into the daily routines of the education profession whilst conveying the enthusiasm, expertise, and nurturing environment educators create every day," Donna said.