Educate Awards announces Dr Penny Ding as new judge for 2024

The prestigious Educate Awards has confirmed that a new judge, Dr Penny Ding, will be joining the esteemed panel for 2024.

Dr Penny Ding is a senior lecturer of Chinese studies and the UK deputy director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Liverpool. Her journey in academia took her from a BA in English language and literature to a Masters in English linguistics in China, culminating in a PhD under the esteemed Professor Zoltán Dörnyei at the University of Nottingham.

At the heart of Penny’s work is her passion for bridging cultures. Through her leadership at the Confucius Institute, she spearheads academic programmes and orchestrates vibrant cultural events, including the annual Liverpool Chinese New Year Gala for young people; a celebration that has become a cornerstone event in the city.

Penny will judge two categories; the Innovative & Creative Literacy Award and the Community Partnership Award.

Commenting on the news, Dr Penny Ding said: “I’m excited and deeply honoured to serve as a judge for the Educate Awards in the categories of the Innovative & Creative Literacy Award and the Community Partnership Award.

“This opportunity allows me to witness first-hand the inventive ways schools are engaging students in literacy, seeing the impact of creative approaches that go beyond traditional methods to inspire a love of reading and writing.

Penny added: “It’s a privilege to observe the partnerships schools forge with their communities, which not only enhance the educational experience but also equip students with essential life skills. I am eager to celebrate and recognise the achievements of those who are setting new standards of excellence in education.”

Penny’s dedication to education shines through in her innovative approach to teaching and curriculum design in applied linguistics. Her research, particularly in second language acquisition and multilingualism, has a tangible impact, helping to enhance the language learning experience for students.

Penny’s role on the Liverpool City Region Race Equality Boards underpins her dedication to advancing inclusivity and community harmony.

Penny will join the Educate Awards panel of 14 judges, who each bring their own experiences and expertise.

Founder of the Educate Awards, Kim O’Brien, said: “It is with great pleasure that we welcome Dr Penny Ding to the Educate Awards judging panel for 2024.

“Penny brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and passion to the role and we feel she will make an incredible addition to the panel.”

Entries for the Educate Awards are now open. Schools, colleges, academies, and multi academy trusts (MATS), can enter as many categories as they wish, and the awards are completely free to enter.