Architectural Practice of the Year

This award recognises an architectural practice that has demonstrated excellence in designing innovative, functional, and future-focused learning environments within the Scottish Learning Estate. Winning submissions will showcase projects that align with Scotland’s education policies, meet the needs of learners and educators, and deliver long-term value through sustainability, inclusivity, and adaptability. 

Eligibility 

Open to architectural practices working on education projects in Scotland. Submissions should focus on projects completed between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025 that contribute to Scotland’s evolving education landscape. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Quality of Design (10 points) 
  Evidence of outstanding architectural design that enhances learning experiences, reflects Scotland’s educational ambitions, and provides flexible, inclusive, and inspiring environments. Designs should be adaptable to evolving pedagogical needs. 

• Value Delivery (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the project provided measurable value, balancing cost-effectiveness, operational efficiency, and long-term adaptability. Entries should include data or case studies showing economic, educational, or operational benefits. 

• Client Engagement and Satisfaction (10 points) 
  Evidence of meaningful collaboration with key stakeholders, including school leaders, local authorities, and communities. Submissions should feature testimonials and examples of how feedback was integrated into the design process. 

• Impact on Learners and Educators (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the design positively influences students, teachers, and wider school communities, supporting Scotland’s aspirations for inclusive, engaging, and effective learning environments. 

• Sustainability and Innovation (10 points) 
  Evidence of commitment to sustainability, including the use of low-carbon materials, energy-efficient solutions, and innovative design approaches that align with Scotland’s environmental targets. Entries should provide measurable outcomes where possible. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to three projects, including high-quality visuals (photos, renderings, or drawings). 
• At least one client testimonial from a senior stakeholder, such as a headteacher or local authority representative. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Metrics on project performance (e.g., cost savings, space utilisation improvements). 

• Sustainability data (e.g., carbon footprint reductions, energy efficiency gains). 

• Results from user satisfaction surveys or stakeholder feedback. 

Enter the Awards

 Category Sponsor

Client of the Year

This award recognises a nursery, school, college, university, or local authority that has demonstrated exceptional passion, leadership, and innovation in the delivery of a new build or refurbishment project. Winning submissions will highlight how the client has ensured a clear alignment between education, community objectives, and long-term strategic goals, fostering collaboration and excellence throughout all stages of decision-making. 

Eligibility 

Open to educational institutions and local authorities leading projects within Scotland’s education sector. Submissions should focus on projects completed between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. If multiple entries involve the same client, we may request a joint submission. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Quality of Project Example(s) (10 points) 
  Evidence of an outstanding new build or refurbishment project, showcasing excellence in design, execution, and alignment with educational objectives. 

• Passion, Collaboration, and Innovation (10 points) 
  Demonstration of the client’s vision, leadership, and commitment to collaboration, ensuring the project delivers long-term benefits for learners, staff, and the wider community. 

• Impact on Learning and the Community (10 points) 
  Evidence of how the project has enhanced learning environments, improved user experiences, and created positive outcomes for students, educators, and the local community. 

• Sustainability and Future-Proofing (10 points) 
  Demonstration of a commitment to sustainability, adaptability, and long-term value, ensuring the learning space meets evolving educational needs and environmental goals. 

• Commitment to Excellence and Leadership (10 points) 
  Demonstration of leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence in delivering education projects. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to three projects, including high-quality visuals (photos, floor plans, or before-and-after comparisons). 
• At least one client testimonial from a contractor, architect, or key stakeholder involved in the project. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Project impact metrics (e.g., improved educational outcomes, community engagement levels). 

• Sustainability data (e.g., carbon footprint reductions, energy efficiency improvements). 

• Stakeholder feedback or post-occupancy evaluations. 

Enter the Awards

Category Sponsor

Consultancy of the Year

This award recognises a consultancy firm that has demonstrated excellence in supporting and delivering outstanding education projects in Scotland. Winning submissions will highlight technical expertise, strategic impact, and commitment to client success across new build, refurbishment, or infrastructure improvement projects. 

Eligibility 

Open to consultancy firms operating within Scotland’s education sector. Submissions should focus on projects completed between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Quality of Work Produced (10 points) 
  Evidence of exceptional consultancy expertise, demonstrating technical innovation, problem-solving, and effective project delivery that enhances learning environments. 

• Client Engagement and Satisfaction (10 points) 
  Demonstration of collaborative working, proactive engagement with clients and stakeholders, and positive testimonials reflecting a high level of satisfaction. 

• Impact on Project Outcomes (10 points) 
  Evidence of how the consultancy’s involvement has added value, including cost efficiencies, risk mitigation, sustainability integration, and project success metrics. 

• Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability (10 points) 
  Demonstration of forward-thinking solutions, whether through digital technologies (e.g., BIM), sustainable practices, or unique consultancy approaches that have enhanced project delivery. 

• Value-Added Consultancy and Strategic Insight (10 points) 
  Demonstration of added value through strategic insight, problem-solving, or innovative approaches to project delivery. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to three projects, including high-quality visuals (photos, technical drawings, or project reports). 
• At least one client testimonial from a local authority, school, or project partner. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Project success metrics (e.g., cost savings, time efficiencies, sustainability performance). 

• Stakeholder engagement feedback (e.g., workshops, consultation processes). 

• Examples of innovative methodologies or technologies used. 

Enter the Awards

Category Sponsor

Contractor of the Year

This award recognises a main contractor that has demonstrated outstanding work in the Scottish education sector, delivering high-quality, innovative, and sustainable learning environments. Winning submissions will highlight excellence in construction, client collaboration, and project delivery, ensuring lasting impact on schools, learners, and communities. 

Eligibility 

Open to main contractors working on education projects across Scotland. Submissions should focus on projects completed between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Quality of Design and Construction (10 points) 
  Evidence of exceptional construction quality, adherence to best practices, and innovative solutions that enhance the functionality, durability, and sustainability of learning spaces. 

• Client Engagement and Satisfaction (10 points) 
  Demonstration of strong collaboration with clients, including local authorities, schools, and communities. Submissions should include testimonials and examples of how client needs and feedback were integrated into project delivery. 

• Project Impact and Outcomes (10 points) 
  Evidence of how the contractor’s work has positively impacted students, staff, and the wider community, focusing on timely delivery, cost efficiency, and overall user experience. 

• Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation (10 points) 
  Demonstration of sustainable construction practices, including carbon reduction, energy efficiency, use of eco-friendly materials, and innovative approaches to minimising environmental impact. 

• Problem-Solving and Project Management Excellence (10 points) 
  Demonstration of problem-solving, risk management, and excellence in project execution. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to three projects, including high-quality visuals (photos, renderings, or construction plans). 
• At least one client testimonial from a senior stakeholder, such as a local authority representative, headteacher, or project manager. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Project delivery metrics (e.g., completion timelines, budget performance). 

• Sustainability data (e.g., carbon savings, waste reduction, energy performance). 

• Results from stakeholder feedback or post-occupancy evaluations. 

Enter the Awards

Category Sponsor

Creating Space for Outdoor Learning and Play

NEW THIS YEAR!

This award recognises settings, organisations, or institutions that have created or transformed educational environments to provide rich and stimulating outdoor spaces, where learning, school-related activities, and play can take place outdoors. These spaces should offer a diversity of activities and experiences that address the physical, mental, developmental, and learning needs of the users. 

The winning projects will demonstrate participative approaches to space creation, ideally including links with the community and neighbourhood. The spaces should also foster contact with nature and nature-based learning through habitat creation and exposure to outdoor environments. Additionally, they should embody sustainability and climate resilience, making sustainable choices and ideally incorporating nature-based solutions. 

The award may also consider other ways in which institutions or organisations have successfully provided regular settings for outdoor learning and play, fostering stimulating experiences and connections with nature. 

Eligibility 

Open to architects, designers, landscape architects, educational institutions, and organisations involved in the design and implementation of outdoor learning and play spaces. Submissions should focus on projects completed between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025 

Judging Criteria 

Submissions will be marked out of 10 for each of the following criteria: 

• Pioneering an Innovative Approach (10 points) 
  Evidence of innovative and creative design that challenges traditional outdoor learning and play spaces. How does the project introduce new ideas or strategies to enhance the outdoor educational experience? 

• Quality of Results and Expertise Employed (10 points) 
  How well was the space designed and implemented? This criterion reflects the level of expertise used in creating the space and the quality of the results achieved in the process. 

• Scale and Impact (10 points) 
  Consideration of the reach and benefits of the project. This includes the breadth of impact, such as how many users the space serves and the long-term positive effects it provides, while acknowledging that bigger isn’t necessarily better. 

• Demonstrated Success in Terms of End User Benefits (10 points) 
  Evidence of how the space benefits its users, such as increased outdoor activity, greater engagement with nature, or improvements in physical and mental well-being. Judges will look for data, feedback, or examples that show the space is actively used and positively impacts its users. 

• Sustainability and Climate Resilience (10 points) 
  Consideration of how the space integrates sustainable practices and promotes climate resilience. Does the project use eco-friendly materials, nature-based solutions, and strategies that support long-term environmental health and sustainability? 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide the following: 
• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to 3 projects, including visuals (photos, floorplans, or renderings). 
• At least one testimonial from an educator, school, or key stakeholder involved in the project. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Data on space usage and benefits to users (e.g., increased outdoor activity, improved learning outcomes). 

• Sustainability performance metrics (e.g., materials used, energy efficiency, climate resilience). 

• Examples of innovative design strategies or technology integration. 

Enter the Awards

To sponsor this category, please contact Jacqui on 01892 351626 or jacquigrant@stepconnect2.com

Early Learning & Childcare Award

This award recognises excellence in the design, development, and delivery of Early Learning & Childcare (ELC) facilities within Scottish communities. Winning entries will showcase innovative approaches to creating high-quality early years environments that support Scotland’s commitment to giving children the best start in life. Submissions should highlight how spaces enhance learner-led experiences, foster creativity, and support the quality of experience for young learners. 

Eligibility 

Open to organisations, project teams, and partnerships involved in ELC facility projects across Scotland. Submissions should focus on projects completed between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. If multiple entries involve the same client, we may request a joint submission. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Quality of Design and Innovation (10 points) 
  Evidence of outstanding architectural and design solutions that enhance early learning environments. Submissions should demonstrate creative and child-centred approaches to space, materials, and layout that encourage exploration and play-based learning. 

• Impact on Early Learners and Communities (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the ELC facility positively influences young children’s development, wellbeing, and engagement. Evidence should highlight the impact on staff, families, and the wider community, showcasing inclusivity and accessibility. 

• Client Engagement and Satisfaction (10 points) 
  Evidence of collaboration with key stakeholders, including local authorities, early years educators, and parents. Submissions should feature testimonials and examples of how client feedback influenced the project. 

• Sustainability and Wellbeing (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the project promotes healthy, sustainable environments, including the use of natural materials, outdoor learning spaces, and eco-friendly design solutions that support young children’s wellbeing. 

• Enhancement of Learning and Play Experiences (10 points) 
  Demonstration of the enhancing the learning, play, and social experiences of early learners. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to three projects, including high-quality visuals (photos, renderings, or floor plans). 
• At least one client testimonial from a senior stakeholder, such as an early years practitioner, local authority representative, or parent group. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Metrics on user engagement and learning outcomes. 

• Sustainability and wellbeing data (e.g., indoor air quality, outdoor space usage). 

• Results from stakeholder feedback or satisfaction surveys. 

Enter the Awards

To sponsor this category, please contact Jacqui on 01892 351626 or jacquigrant@stepconnect2.com

Innovation in Delivering a Sustainable Learning Space

This award recognises excellence in embedding sustainability across all levels of decision-making in the design, development, and operation of learning spaces within Scotland’s education sector. Winning submissions will showcase how projects enhance the environmental performance of key spaces while fostering sustainable behaviours among users. 

Eligibility 

Open to organisations, project teams, and partnerships delivering sustainable learning spaces across Scotland. Submissions should focus on projects completed between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. If multiple entries involve the same client, we may request a joint submission. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Quality of Sustainable Design and Delivery (10 points) 
  Evidence of high-quality sustainable solutions in existing or new-build learning spaces. Submissions should demonstrate innovation in materials, energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and environmental impact. 

• Sustainable Learning in Practice (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the project supports sustainable learning, including low-carbon design, renewable energy integration, circular economy principles, or behaviour-driven sustainability initiatives that engage pupils and staff. 

• Impact on Learners and Communities (10 points) 
  Evidence of how the project has positively influenced students, educators, and the wider community, fostering awareness, engagement, and action in sustainability. 

• Carbon and Energy Performance (10 points) 
  Supporting data showcasing measurable improvements in carbon footprint reduction, energy performance, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability benefits. 

• Scalability and Long-Term Impact (10 points) 
  Demonstration of scalable, transferable, or long-term sustainability benefits that can inspire or inform future learning space projects. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to three projects, including high-quality visuals (photos, renderings, or energy performance data). 
• At least one client testimonial from a senior stakeholder, such as a headteacher, facilities manager, or sustainability lead. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Carbon reduction and energy efficiency metrics (e.g., operational energy use, embodied carbon data). 

• Sustainability performance outcomes, such as waste reduction, biodiversity enhancement, or water conservation. 

• User engagement feedback (e.g., sustainability workshops, pupil-led initiatives). 

Enter the Awards

To sponsor this category, please contact Jacqui on 01892 351626 or jacquigrant@stepconnect2.com

Inspiring Learning Spaces

This award recognises innovation in the creation of inspiring learning environments—whether in new build projects or refurbishments—that enhance teaching, learning, and collaboration. Winning entries will showcase flexible, creative, and impactful designs that promote new ways of learning and can be easily replicated across the learning estate. 

Eligibility 

Open to schools, colleges, universities, and local authorities in Scotland that have delivered an innovative learning space between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. If multiple entries involve the same project, we may request a joint submission. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Demonstration of Inspirational Spaces (10 points) 
  Evidence of exceptional and innovative design, showcasing how the space enhances engagement, creativity, and flexibility in learning and teaching. 

• Impact on the User Experience (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the space positively influences pupils, staff, and the wider community, supporting collaboration, accessibility, and inclusion. 

• Scalability and Replicability (10 points) 
  Evidence of how the space can be adapted or replicated across other educational settings, ensuring long-term impact on the learning estate. 

• Sustainability and Long-Term Value (10 points) 
  Demonstration of sustainable materials, energy-efficient solutions, and adaptability to meet future education needs. 

• Enabling New Ways of Learning, Teaching, or Collaboration (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the space has inspired new approaches to learning, teaching, or collaboration among pupils, staff, or the wider community.  

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to three projects, including high-quality visuals (photos, floor plans, or renderings). 
• At least one testimonial from a pupil, teacher, or school leader about the impact of the space. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Metrics on student engagement, learning outcomes, or space utilisation. 

• Evidence of sustainability features or future-proofing. 

• Survey results or feedback from users and stakeholders. 

Enter the Awards

Category Sponsor

Project of the Year - Inclusive Design

This award recognises an outstanding education project that demonstrates exceptional inclusive design to meet the needs of pupils and students with additional support needs (ASN). Winning entries will showcase thoughtful, accessible, and innovative design solutions that foster equity, participation, and enhanced learning experiences. 

Eligibility 

Open to ELC settings, schools, colleges, and universities in Scotland. Projects must have been completed between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. Entries must clearly state the client, architect(s), contractor(s), and consultant(s) involved. If multiple entries involve the same project, we may request a joint submission. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Quality of Design and Construction (10 points) 
  Evidence of high-quality, inclusive design that enhances accessibility, engagement, and wellbeing for pupils and students with ASN. 

• Meeting the Needs of ASN Learners (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the project effectively supports pupils and students with additional support needs, using inclusive design principles, assistive technologies, and adaptable learning spaces. 

• Engagement and Satisfaction (10 points) 
  Examples of collaboration with students, teachers, parents, or family members, with testimonials from key stakeholders showcasing the positive impact on learners and their educational experience. 

• Co-Design with Young People (10 points) 
  Evidence that the project was developed ‘with’ young people rather than just ‘for’ them, demonstrating student involvement in shaping the design process. 

• Sustainability and Energy Performance (10 points) 
  Evidence of environmental responsibility, energy efficiency, and sustainability measures, including carbon reduction, energy-efficient systems, and eco-friendly materials. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies with up to three project examples, including high-quality visuals (photos, drawings, or accessibility features). 
• At least one testimonial from a pupil/student, teacher, parent, or family member. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Details on inclusive design solutions (e.g., sensory-friendly spaces, accessibility adaptations, or assistive technologies). 

• Survey results or feedback from ASN learners and their families. 

• Metrics on sustainability and energy performance (e.g., carbon footprint reductions, energy efficiency improvements). 

Enter the Awards

To sponsor this category, please contact Jacqui on 01892 351626 or jacquigrant@stepconnect2.com

Project of the Year

This award recognises an outstanding new build project in an Early Learning & Childcare (ELC) setting, school, college, or university that exemplifies the principles of the Learning Estate Strategy. Winning projects will demonstrate high-quality design, innovation, sustainability, and positive impact on users while offering transferrable lessons for future projects. 

Eligibility 

Open to ELC settings, schools, colleges, and universities in Scotland that have completed a new build project between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. Entries must clearly state the client, architect(s), contractor(s), and consultant(s) involved. If multiple entries involve the same project, we may request a joint submission. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Quality of Design and Construction (10 points) 
  Evidence of high-quality architecture and construction, demonstrating innovation, functionality, and alignment with modern education needs. 

• Impact on the User Experience (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the project enhances learning, wellbeing, and engagement for pupils, staff, and the wider community. 

• Client Engagement and Satisfaction (10 points) 
  Examples of collaboration with stakeholders, responsiveness to feedback, and testimonials from key stakeholders (e.g., headteachers, facilities managers, students). 

• Sustainability and Energy Performance (10 points) 
  Evidence of sustainable design, carbon reduction, energy efficiency, and future-proofing. Include relevant metrics on environmental impact. 

• Innovation in Learning Environments (10 points) 
  Evidence of new approaches or ideas that this project has introduced to the educational sector. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies with up to three project examples, including high-quality visuals (labelled photographs, floor plans, or renderings). 
• At least one client testimonial, ideally from a senior stakeholder or end user. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Metrics on sustainability and energy performance (e.g., carbon footprint reductions, energy efficiency improvements). 

• Survey results or feedback from students, staff, and parents. 

• Demonstration of transferrable lessons for future projects. 

Enter the Awards

Category Sponsor

Pupil/Student Experience

This award recognises a learning establishment that has undertaken a buildings or facilities investment that has significantly enhanced the pupil/student experience. Winning submissions will demonstrate measurable improvements in learning, social interaction, and overall health and wellbeing, ensuring a lasting positive impact on learners. 

Eligibility 

Open to schools, colleges, universities, and local authorities in Scotland that have completed a new build, refurbishment, or facilities enhancement project between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. If multiple entries involve the same project, we may request a joint submission. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Impact on Pupil/Student Experience (10 points) 
  Evidence of how the investment has significantly improved the learning, social, and wellbeing experience for pupils/students. 

• Client and User Engagement & Satisfaction (10 points) 
  Demonstration of collaboration with students, staff, and key stakeholders, including feedback and testimonials showcasing satisfaction with the project. 

• Quality of Learning & Social Environments (10 points) 
  Examples of how the space enhances learning outcomes, accessibility, inclusivity, and community integration. 

• Health & Wellbeing Benefits (10 points) 
  Evidence of improvements to physical and mental wellbeing, such as increased natural light, better acoustics, active learning spaces, or outdoor access. 

• Long-term Sustainability and Adaptability (10 points) 
  Evidence of the space’s ability to adapt to changing educational needs, support long-term sustainability, and remain functional and relevant for future generations of students. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to three projects, including high-quality visuals (photos, floor plans, or before-and-after comparisons). 
• At least one testimonial from a pupil/student, teacher, or school leader. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Metrics on student wellbeing, engagement, or academic impact. 

• Sustainability data or evidence of improved environmental quality (e.g., air quality, noise reduction). 

• Survey results or feedback from students, staff, and parents

Enter the Awards

To sponsor this category, please contact Jacqui on 01892 351626 or jacquigrant@stepconnect2.com

Refurbishment of the Year

This award recognises an outstanding refurbishment project in an Early Learning & Childcare (ELC) setting, school, college, or university that has significantly improved the educational or research experience. Winning entries will showcase exceptional design, innovation, and sustainability while enhancing the functionality, accessibility, and energy efficiency of existing spaces. 

Eligibility 

Open to ELC settings, schools, colleges, and universities in Scotland that have completed a refurbishment project between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. Entries must clearly state the client, architect(s), contractor(s), and consultant(s) involved. If multiple entries involve the same project, we may request a joint submission. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Quality of Work Produced (10 points) 
  Evidence of high-quality design and refurbishment, demonstrating how the project transforms and enhances existing learning environments. 

• Impact on the User Experience (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the refurbishment has positively influenced pupils, staff, and the wider community, improving learning, teaching, and wellbeing. 

• Client Engagement and Satisfaction (10 points) 
  Examples of collaboration with key stakeholders, responsiveness to feedback, and testimonials from clients, staff, or students. 

• Sustainability and Energy Performance (10 points) 
  Evidence of sustainable design choices, carbon reduction, energy efficiency improvements, and future-proofing. Include relevant metrics on environmental impact. 

• Transformation and Innovation (10 points) 
  Evidence of how the refurbishment has transformed the learning or research environment, including innovative design approaches, the integration of new technologies, or creative solutions to overcome project challenges. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Before and after photographs that clearly illustrate the impact of the refurbishment. 
• Case studies with up to three project examples, including high-quality visuals (floor plans, renderings, or time-lapse images). 
• At least one client testimonial, ideally from a senior stakeholder or end user. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Metrics on sustainability and energy performance (e.g., carbon footprint reductions, energy efficiency improvements). 

• Survey results or feedback from students, staff, and parents. 

• Demonstration of transferrable lessons for future refurbishments. 

Enter the Awards

To sponsor this category, please contact Jacqui on 01892 351626 or jacquigrant@stepconnect2.com

Supplier of the Year

This award recognises a supplier or service provider that has demonstrated exceptional support, innovation, and impact in the Scottish education sector. Winning entries will highlight high-quality solutions, innovative approaches, and strong client engagement, contributing to the enhancement of learning environments, educational outcomes, and sustainability goals. 

Eligibility 

Open exclusively to Learning Places Scotland and EdTech Scotland exhibitors and sponsors. Submissions must focus on projects or solutions delivered between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. 

Judging Criteria 

Submissions will be marked out of 10 for each of the following: 

• Quality of Projects or Solutions Delivered (10 points) 

• Evidence of high-quality services, products, or solutions that have made a positive impact on learning environments or educational outcomes. 

• Demonstration of reliable service delivery and positive client experiences. 

• Innovation and Impact (10 points) 

• Clear demonstration of innovation in product, service, or approach that enhances learning spaces or the educational experience. 

• Examples of how the supplier has introduced new technologies, methodologies, or solutions to improve education delivery. 

• Client Engagement and Satisfaction (10 points) 

• Evidence of strong partnerships with educational institutions, local authorities, or project teams. 

• Testimonials or feedback showcasing high levels of client satisfaction and successful project outcomes. 

• Contribution to Sustainability Goals (10 points) 

• Demonstration of how the supplier has supported sustainability in learning environments, such as through energy-efficient products, low-carbon materials, or environmentally responsible solutions. 

• Clear examples of how the supplier’s work aligns with Scotland’s Net Zero and climate resilience goals. 

• Support for Educational Outcomes and User Experience (10 points) 

• Evidence of how the supplier’s product or service has positively impacted learners, educators, or the wider community. 

• Clear demonstration of how the solution supports better learning outcomes, accessibility, or improved user experiences in education spaces. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 

• Case studies of up to three project examples, including visuals (e.g., product images, project photos, or implementation examples). 

• At least one client testimonial from a school, college, university, or local authority representative. 

• Supporting evidence, such as: 

• Data on client satisfaction or impact metrics. 

• Sustainability performance metrics (e.g., carbon savings, use of sustainable materials, energy efficiency). 

• Examples of innovation, technology, or service enhancements. 

Enter the Awards

To sponsor this category, please contact Jacqui on 01892 351626 or jacquigrant@stepconnect2.com

Technology: Transforming Learning, Teaching, and the Curriculum

This award recognises outstanding innovation in the use of technology to enhance learning, teaching, and curriculum delivery within Scotland’s education system. Winning submissions will demonstrate how technology has improved equity, accessibility, and engagement for learners and educators while aligning with Scotland’s digital learning ambitions. 

Eligibility 

Open to organisations, partnerships, or project teams delivering technology-driven solutions within Scottish education. Submissions should focus on projects implemented between 01/06/2023 and 28/02/2025. If multiple entries involve the same client, we may request a joint submission. 

Judging Criteria 

Entries will be scored out of 10 based on the following: 

• Impact on Learning and Teaching (10 points) 
  Demonstration of how the technology has transformed teaching methods, enhanced curriculum delivery, and improved learner engagement, accessibility, and outcomes. Evidence should highlight real-world benefits for pupils, staff, and the wider community. 

• Equity and Inclusion (10 points) 
  Evidence of how the solution promotes equal access to high-quality education, ensuring that all learners—regardless of background, ability, or location—can benefit. Submissions should demonstrate inclusive design principles and measurable impact. 

• Client Engagement and Satisfaction (10 points) 
  Demonstration of effective collaboration with educators, local authorities, and other key stakeholders. Submissions should include testimonials and examples of how user feedback influenced project development and implementation. 

• Innovation and Scalability (10 points) 
  Evidence of original, forward-thinking approaches to educational technology, with potential for broader application across the Scottish Learning Estate. Entries should demonstrate adaptability and long-term sustainability. 

• Educational Strategy Alignment and Adaptability (10 points)  

Evidence of how well the technology fits within the overarching educational framework and adapts to future trends, ensuring continued relevance and support for educational transformation. 

Submission Requirements 

Entrants must provide: 

• A written summary (max 1,000 words) addressing the judging criteria. 
• Case studies of up to three projects, including visuals (screenshots, photos, or digital demonstrations). 
• At least one client testimonial from a senior stakeholder, such as a headteacher, IT director, or local authority representative. 
• Supporting evidence such as: 

• Data on user engagement and learning outcomes. 

• Accessibility and inclusion metrics. 

• Results from user satisfaction surveys or stakeholder feedback. 

Enter the Awards

Category Sponsor