We're continuing the countdown to the Teach Portsmouth Awards with our series of articles introducing the sponsors who have made this year's event possible.

This week we discover what the awards mean to BAE Systems, this year's sponsor of the outstanding contribution award.

The Teach Portsmouth Awards recognise the achievements of education professionals in schools, colleges and organisations across the waterfront city. This year we'll be celebrating Portsmouth's star teachers, support teams and leaders at a virtual awards ceremony on Thursday 8 July.

In this article we hear from Vivienne Hine, education and early careers manager, BAE Systems Maritime Services. 

Could you tell us what you do and what connection to education you have?

​I am the education and early careers manager. This involves leading the graduate, undergraduate and education outreach programmes for the Maritime Services business, headquartered at Portsmouth Naval Base.

I am responsible for developing and delivering an education strategy and annual plan of activities that meets the needs of the business and those of schools, colleges and other local community partners. These activities relate to supporting the promotion of student participation in STEM subjects, increasing their employability skills and encouraging them to aspire to an apprenticeship or graduate role with us.

What do the Teach Portsmouth Awards mean to you / your organisation?

​The Teach Portsmouth Awards give us the opportunity to thank teachers and support staff for their tireless work in providing educational excellence to children and young people across our city. In recognising and celebrating their achievements, we hope we can raise the profile of Portsmouth as a fantastic place to live and work.

What are you looking forward to from the awards ceremony?

​It is a privilege to participate in these celebrations, particularly in a year that has brought unprecedented challenge. It has seen teachers continuing to dedicate themselves to educating and supporting our children during this challenging time. I am looking forward to hearing inspirational stories about the positive impact that teachers have had upon the lives of young people and the wider Portsmouth community.

What special message do you have for Portsmouth's teachers, support teams and leaders?

​I would like to thank them for their commitment to supporting the city's students. The last year has been hugely challenging for everyone in education, and I think it's really important to recognise teachers who have gone above and beyond. Students will have felt unsettled and anxious, not only about their education, but their everyday lives too. Teachers have helped students throughout the last year, and have done so while juggling the upheaval in their own lives caused by COVID-19. This is testament to their flexibility and dedication to teaching.