When Jason Halstead first walked through the doors of Erdington Academy in 1998, he was a young teacher returning from a formative spell teaching English in Japan. He brought with him a global perspective and a passion for helping students understand the world around them. Twenty‑eight years later, that passion remains undimmed, and the way he has shaped the culture, values, and direction of the Academy has earned him a nomination for the Lifetime Service Achievement Award.
He is one of five Fairfax Multi-Academy Trust colleagues shortlisted for honours at the Midlands Education Awards 2026, taking place at Millennium Point on Friday 3 July.
Assistant Principal Mrs Shelley Boreland‑Muschette, who nominated him, recalls the immediate impact he made.
“Students responded to his enthusiasm, and his lessons consistently fostered curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning.”
She adds: “Mr Halstead’s career is defined by service, compassion, and integrity. His impact spans decades, roles, and generations. He is the embodiment of a Lifetime Service Achievement Award.”
Across his time at Erdington Academy, Jason has held a range of roles, including Head of Year, Head of Outdoor Education, Head of History, Pastoral Head of Key Stage 3, and now Assistant Principal leading on safeguarding.
As Head of Year, he became a steadying presence for hundreds of students. Families trusted him. Colleagues leaned on him. Students, many facing challenges far beyond the school gates, found in him a calm, consistent advocate.
“He strengthened the pastoral foundations of the Academy and helped countless young people navigate some of the most challenging periods of their lives,” Mrs Boreland‑Muschette said.
Nearly three decades on, Mr Halstead says he has never lost sight of why he entered the profession – a career that has given him friends for life.
“When I reflect on my career, the real highlights go far beyond the classroom,” he said.
“I’ve always been passionate about giving young people opportunities they might not otherwise have – through outdoor education.”
He led the Duke of Edinburgh Award, organised camping expeditions, and, as a qualified Alpine Ski Leader, took students to the mountains – often their first time leaving Birmingham.
“For many students, those experiences are genuinely life changing,” he said.
“Seeing young people go on to university, careers, and futures they may never have imagined when they first walked through the school gates, knowing you’ve played a small part in that journey is also incredibly special.”
“And none of this happens alone. I’ve been lucky to work alongside amazing colleagues – people who support each other, share the tough days, celebrate the successes, and often become lifelong friends. That camaraderie is at the heart of what makes this profession so special.”
Even now, he runs a gardening club – a quieter endeavour, perhaps, but one that still reflects his commitment to enriching students’ lives in ways that build confidence and pride.
Mr Jason Halstead’s leadership as Designated Safeguarding Lead has been repeatedly praised by Ofsted, but it was during the COVID‑19 pandemic that his dedication became unmistakable. He coordinated weekly welfare calls for every student, and when families couldn’t be reached, he personally conducted home visits to ensure vulnerable children remained safe.
It is the kind of work that rarely makes headlines, but quietly changes lives.
Today, alongside safeguarding, he coordinates the school’s Free Fruit Programme, ensuring pupils, many from low‑income households, have access to healthy food each day.
Across nearly three decades, Mr Halstead has helped guide Erdington Academy through major improvement journeys, strengthened safeguarding systems, expanded student leadership, and opened the world to young people who might otherwise never have glimpsed it.
Whether he wins on 3 July or not, the verdict within Erdington Academy is already unanimous.