Topic Awards, Education, People
Date 09 Oct 2025
Galliford Try and client Quest Trust have been nominated for three awards at the People’s Awards segment of the prestigious Education Estates Awards, a celebration of outstanding individuals and initiatives shaping the future of education.
Claire Jackson, Education Director for Galliford Try, has been shortlisted for the Inspirational Leader Award. Her leadership on Department for Education (DfE) Framework, through which Galliford Try delivered Woodham Academy in the North East, reflects her commitment to creating not just buildings, but inspiring spaces that young people can take pride in. From the outset, she has championed sustainability, driving the adoption of digital twin technology and Net Zero Carbon in Operation strategies. Her influence is felt not only in the success of our education projects, but in the way she empowers her teams to think long-term and act with purpose.
Senai Kabba, Graduate Design Manager for Galliford Try’s Building Southern business, has been nominated in the Emerging Talent category. Since joining Galliford Try in September 2024, Senai has played a pivotal role in the £21m redevelopment of Merrist Wood College. Her ability to co-ordinate across disciplines ensuring designs are both practical and buildable has made her a standout contributor.
Galliford Try is also pleased to announce that Tonianne Hewitt, Chief Finance Officer (CFO) of the Quest Trust, has been nominated for Estates Professional of the Year, which recognises exceptional talent and application leading to significant achievement in good estate management. Tonianne was put forward by Galliford Try for balancing the heavy demands of her CFO role with leading two major extension projects at University Collegiate School, working closely with Galliford Try, the DfE, and school leaders.
Commenting on the nominations, Claire Jackson, Education Director, said: “Education Estates is the premier event in the sector for us with the People’s Awards recognising the incredible talent and passion of the people who bring inspirational facilities to life. We are delighted to celebrate the nominations of Senai and Tonianne who have both been instrumental in their respective projects showcasing the importance of both contractor and client contributions.
“I am also honoured to be included as a finalist, which is testament to the passion and drive of our whole team. We congratulate all the finalists and wish everyone good luck for the awards.”
Separately, Galliford Try has been shortlisted for Contractor of the Year, with Morrison Construction’s East Calder Primary School project being shortlisted for both Project of the Year and Inspiring Learning Spaces for showing excellence in design, construction and impact.