At ceremonies held during the Gess Dubai and Global Education Forum, organised by F&E Group in working partnership with the UAE Ministry of Education, education professionals and organisations were recognised for their significant contributions in advancing the cause of education, environment, community involvement and innovation.

"We salute the winners for their dedication towards the development of the education sector in the Middle East. Their contributions have played an important part in continuing professional development of teachers and the future success of students from around the region. May their achievements be a shining example for others to follow," said Matt Thompson, Project Director, F&E Group, organisers of the awards.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, presented in partnership with Taaleem, was given to Professor JJ Thompson, CBE, for his contributions to the development of the International Baccalaureate programme that has been the hallmark of world-class education globally.

A Dubai-based educator, Rachael Edgar, was recognised with the Innovation in Education award for founding and spearheading SPARK (Dubai LeadMeet), which organises peer-to-peer learning opportunities for teachers throughout the UAE.

Meanwhile, Lucy Bruce and Beverly Jatwani (Home Grown Children's Eco Nursery) took home the Ambassador for the Environment award; while Simran Vedvyas, founder of the Synergy youth group and student at the Universal American School in Dubai was presented with the Community Award for Citizenship for her youth mobilisation initiatives that affect education, health, environment and social welfare.

The Outstanding Contribution in Education was presented to Pakistan's Sadaf Taimur of the Silver Oaks Schools and College for establishing several notable international and industry partnerships that support Silver Oaks' long-term development and growth.

Another accomplished education professional, Chassie Selouane of the Sharjah American International School - Dubai, received the Judges Commendation Award for successfully integrating technology into her daily lessons and enriching her students' learning experience; while Steve Bambury of the Jumeirah English Speaking School was honoured with the Best use of ICT/eLearning in the Classroom award.