Nominations have now closed and the Teach Portsmouth Awards are fast approaching. As we continue our countdown we're pleased to introduce our sponsors who have helped make this year's event possible.

In this article you'll find out what the Teach Portsmouth Awards mean to the University of Portsmouth, sponsor of this year's partnership award.

​The Teach Portsmouth Awards recognise the achievements of education professionals in schools, colleges and organisations across the waterfront city. This year we'll be celebrating Portsmouth's star teachers, support teams and leaders at a virtual awards ceremony on Thursday 8 July.

This week Dr Catherine Carroll-Meehan, Head of School of Education and Sociology, tells us what the Teach Portsmouth Awards mean to the University of Portsmouth.

Could you tell us what your organisation does and what connection to education you have?

The University of Portsmouth received university status in 1992. We are a breath of fresh air in the academic world – a place where everyone gets the support they need to achieve their best.

We are closely involved with our local community and we take our ideas into the global marketplace. We partner with business, industry and government to set the course for a better future. And we educate and transform the lives of our students to help them achieve their potential. We stand out, not just in the UK but in the world.

Teaching at the University of Portsmouth is rated gold, the highest accolade awarded by the government-backed Teaching Excellence Framework scheme (TEF), which means our teaching, learning and student outcomes are outstanding, and among the highest quality in the UK.

What do the Teach Portsmouth Awards mean to your organisation?

​The University aims to become one of the UK's leading civic universities and to be recognised for our civic engagement through the positive differences we make across our region.

Through innovative approaches and active partnerships with organisations like Teach Portsmouth, we will contribute to improving educational outcomes at schools and colleges in Portsmouth. We will also promote access to higher education that will transform life chances for young people in our city.

What are you looking forward to from the awards ceremony?

​We are looking forward to celebrating the hard work and dedication of Portsmouth's outstanding teachers who have shown incredible commitment to supporting the city's children during the pandemic.

What special message do you have for Portsmouth's teachers, support teams and leaders?

​We are so proud of you! Your hard work and dedication, throughout COVID-19, has been outstanding. Thank you for continually investing into the lives of young people in our city - you are preparing them for a great future.