Educator of the Year and local hero all in one

Leeds City College’s Level 3 Barbering Tutor, Tracy Mangan has been awarded Educator of the Year at the VTCT Excellence Awards. 

Held at Manchester City College, Tracy alongside Hair & Beauty students, attended the prestigious event and left feeling proud as they also received the award on behalf of Leeds City College for achieving College of the Year.  

Tracy has been recognised for her dedication to her work over the past year, making a positive impact not only on her students but in the local community.

Tracy has been taking her students to Leeds St Anne’s Resource Centre and Bradford’s Salvation Army once a month to cut hair for the homeless and vulnerable adults. She also sets up a tent once a year in her local area, providing free haircuts to families struggling to take their children to hairdressers.

We caught up with Tracy to hear all about her win in her own words.

From first-time teacher to educator of the year

“Eighteen months ago, I embarked on this incredible journey of teaching and to have won the prestigious ‘Educator Of The Year’ award with VTCT is truly humbling.

“It’s a testament to the amazing students I have the privilege to work with every day. Their enthusiasm, curiosity and dedication inspire me to constantly improve and create a dynamic learning environment.

“This recognition reflects the supportive community I have around me – my fellow educators, my mentor and my inspiring students. 

“But ultimately, the greatest reward is witnessing the ‘aha!’ moments in my student’s eyes. Seeing them grasp new concepts and blossom as learners is what truly fuels my fire. I find great joy in being able to pass on knowledge and skills I have learned throughout the years in my barbering career

“Thank you to my head of department for nominating me. This is a tremendous motivator to keep striving and making a positive impact on young minds.”

Congratulations to Tracy and the School of Hair, Beauty & Media Makeup team for going above and beyond. You can read more about the awards here.