Frequently Asked Questions
The BESA Awards shine a spotlight on leadership and innovation, celebrating the excellence of the educational suppliers sector. Launched as part of BESA’s 90th anniversary, these awards recognise the outstanding achievements of those who set the standard for excellence in education.
The BESA Awards are open to both BESA Member and non-members. The awards are only open to UK-based companies.
To enter you need to complete the online entry form which will be live when the BESA Awards 2026 opens for entries in late November 2025.
To enter the BESA Awards 2026 companies must be a UK Registered Company.
The full list of categories can be found at Entry Categories
The deadline for entries was 5 p.m. Friday 13 March 2026.
The judging is a two-stage process. The first stage involves judges reviewing each entry independently.
The second stage brings together a panel of judges to discuss each entry and their assessment of the entry.
The finalists will be announced in April 2026. Finalists in some of the categories will be invited to send a short pre-prepared video presentation where they can demonstrate their product to the judges.
Entries will be assessed on specific criteria, including design, cost-effectiveness, accessibility, enabling effective learning, and supporting learning beyond the classroom.
BESA will act as chair of judges, overseeing the impartiality and fairness of the robust, two-stage judging process by a panel of experienced educational professionals.
The Besa Awards Judges are renowned for their experience and knowledge of educational resources and suppliers. They are drawn from a bank of experienced teachers with outstanding knowledge and understanding, education consultants and advisers.
Entering education awards provides an excellent opportunity to showcase your achievements, innovation, and impact within the education sector. It can elevate your profile, enhance your reputation, and position your organization, product, service, or resource as a leader in the field.
Winning or being shortlisted for an award not only validates your efforts through independent recognition but also boosts morale among your team, fostering pride and motivation. Additionally, it opens doors to valuable networking opportunities, helping you connect with peers, collaborators, and industry influencers.
Entering the BESA Awards 2026 offers unparalleled opportunities to highlight your achievements and innovation in the education sector.
Being recognised by a trusted and respected organisation like BESA demonstrates your commitment to excellence.
Shortlisted entries and winners gain widespread recognition, opening doors to new business opportunities and partnerships.
The awards also provide a platform to celebrate your team’s hard work.
Additionally, the event offers valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders.
Tickets went on sale in January 2026.
Prior to 6 June 2026 the price per attendee was £295, or £275 for BESA members. Post the 6 June 2026 the price per attendee was £320 or £295 for BESA members.
The BESA Awards took place at the fabulous The Honourable Artillery Company, Armoury House, City Road, London, EC1Y 2BQ. Venue – BESA Awards
For more information about the BESA Awards, please contact Michelle Cousley at michelle@r3events.co.uk.
BESA (British Educational Suppliers Association) is the voice of UK educational suppliers. For almost a century, we’ve been supporting schools and our members by representing, championing and developing the UK education suppliers’ sector. Today, we help and advise educational suppliers of every size, from recent start-ups to multi-national groups. Find out more at About us – BESA