City Lit’s Percussion Maestro Earns National Recognition
National Thank a Teacher Day on 17 June gave us a moment to pause and appreciate the people who make City Lit feel like such a special place to learn.
Among them is someone we’re especially excited to celebrate. Alex Thomas, the brilliant force behind the City Lit Percussion Orchestra, has been awarded a Silver Pearson National Teaching Award in the SEND and Inclusive Practice category.
It’s a well‑deserved recognition of the thoughtful support he gives his students, encouraging them to express themselves, grow in confidence and see their own potential.
Alex’s inspiring work with the Percussion Orchestra
Alex leads the Percussion Orchestra, part of City Lit’s Centre for Learning Disability Education. It’s a music project for adults with learning disabilities, where students create original pieces, build confidence and discover what they can do when they’re supported and encouraged.
Launched in 2015, the orchestra has grown into something really special. It challenges assumptions about who gets to make music and celebrates the creativity and diversity of its members. Under Alex’s guidance, the group has developed its own sound, its own identity and a strong sense of community.
The Percussion Orchestra is also a collaboration with the Royal Academy of Music’s Open Academy, giving Academy students the chance to work alongside City Lit learners. Together, they have performed in venues including City Lit’s John Lyon’s Theatre, the Royal Academy of Music’s David Josefowitz Recital Hall, the Open University in Milton Keynes and the British Museum.
Alex is one of 99 educators across the UK to receive a Silver Award this year, and he now goes forward for the Gold Award later in the year. We’ll be cheering him on every step of the way.
A proud moment for City Lit
Alongside Alex’s success, we’re also delighted to share that two more colleagues received Bronze Awards:
Lorraine Braggins, Lipreading — Lifetime Achievement
Carolyn Cheasman, Speech Therapy — FE Lecturer of the Year
Lorraine and Carolyn have each shaped and transformed their departments in ways that will be felt for a long time to come. Their work has touched generations of students, whether through lipreading, speech therapy or the many other ways they’ve helped people find their voice and confidence. Their recognition adds to a wonderful moment of pride for our whole community.
Honouring the teachers who change lives
The Pearson National Teaching Awards shine a light on the people who make a real difference in education, often quietly, patiently and with a huge amount of heart. Alex’s work with the Percussion Orchestra shows just how powerful that dedication can be. He helps students find their confidence, express themselves and feel proud of what they create.
We’re incredibly proud of Alex, Lorraine and Carolyn, and grateful for everyone at City Lit who helps make learning feel open, supportive and full of possibility.
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