The culture wars are more divisive than ever, with many people deserting X/Twitter in in search of a kinder, more constructive debate. As a society, we are increasingly struggling to listen to one another and to understand the legitimacy – the wisdom, even – of other perspectives. The debate in education, as elsewhere, has become too polarised, too binary, too abusive. 

In this context, it is more important than ever that we celebrate the changemakers in education – those who see problems and roll up their sleeves to find solutions, those who decide it isn’t enough to point the finger of responsibility to the state, to someone they disagree with, or to anyone else. Those who see something that needs sorting and get it sorted. 

At SHINE, we connect inspirational teachers with funding and support to help their ideas become a reality. 

This year, we were able to reach 48,000 children, working with 1,700 teachers and 3,300 parents from more than 400 schools across areas of disadvantage in the North. 

SHINE-backed innovations generated significant evidence of promise, with fantastic examples of impact across the key subjects of maths, English and science. We also agreed a new long-term strategy which will help deepen and strengthen our impact by scaling up proven programmes and building on our networks and practice. 

I’m especially proud of the partnership SHINE is now delivering in Sunderland, based on an extensive research project conducted this year by our partners at the University of Sunderland, and building on the insights and ideas of incredible teachers and school leaders across the city. 

In addition to our grant-making, SHINE  has continued to advocate for positive educational change across the North.  We are working closely with like-minded partners to amplify our influence and impact over the coming years. 

I couldn’t be prouder of what SHINE and our partners have achieved over this past year, nor more optimistic about what is possible for the future. 

As we look to 2025 and beyond, it is clear there are many challenges still to address, but each of us has a chance to make a positive difference. Let’s take it.