Support staff are integral to schools and early years settings. These staff members work so hard to help with children’s learning and development, while doing all they can to keep everything running smoothly. That is why, alongside our celebration day, we run our ‘Nominate a star’ prize draw.

2026 ‘Nominate a star’ is now open!

The nominate a star prize draw for 2026 is now open! You can make your nominations here:

https://unison.org.uk/get-involved/awards-and-recognition/stars-in-our-schools

Make sure you submit your nomination by 5pm on Friday 27 November to be in with a chance of winning.

This year we are doubling the fun - two winning stars from each region will each win a £50 gift voucher, while their nominators win a £25 gift voucher each too! We're also putting a special focus on Early Years settings with a standout 'Early Years Star' winner. So make sure you tell us all about the amazing colleagues you work with and the difference they make.