Team of the Year 2025
Category criteria
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This category is open to teams of employees working within any sector and within any size of business.
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The team could form a department with a business or, within smaller organisations, perhaps the entire workforce could be classed as the team.
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The team will have proven success in encouraging one another’s strengths and leveraging these to achieve results.
Midlands Psychology
Team of the Year entrant
Based within University of Staffordshire’s Stafford Business Village, Midlands Psychology is a social enterprise offering community health and mental health services.
It works with people of all ages, including children and young people, and offers an all-age autism service.
Established in in 2009, the team of five includes two staff members who are University of Staffordshire alumni.
Midlands Psychology offer yearlong placements to students from any University, for an undergraduate placement year. They have been fortunate enough to have recent students from both the University of Staffordshire and Keele University.
“We’re based within University of Staffordshire’s Business Village but the majority of our work is done remotely,” said Midlands Psychology Operational Manager and specialist SEND consultant Tracy Harris.
On the clinical side, the team’s work includes autism assessments for people who would often wait at least 18 months to access similar services through the NHS.
They offer EduTherapy, which operates a successful methodology in terms of support for young people all around Staffordshire who are presenting with difficulties in terms of accessing education, accessing mental health support. EduTherapy is a mainly peripatetic service, whereby the staff go out to the children’s homes to work with them on developing their own toolkits for managing their own behaviours.
Other services include counselling and psychological therapies, forensic psychology, child health psychology, trauma services, occupational therapy and supporting looked after children.
Tracy’s own work often sees her working within schools to advise and support their SEND provision.
“Part of my role is going into schools to support SEN leaders. I’m working with children and young people alongside the adults who teach them,” said Tracy.
“It’s very rewarding and I feel lucky to have the opportunity to go into schools and reassure SENCOs that what there is bringing about the best results for the children that they can and that the children and staff would be really struggling without them.”
Midlands Psychology has entered the Business in the Community, Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Play@ Lower Drayton Farm
Team of the Year entrant
In less than five years, PLAY@ Lower Drayton Farm has grown from an ambitious idea sparked during the uncertainty of a global pandemic into one of Staffordshire’s leading visitor attractions.
Its journey has been driven by adaptability, innovation and a strong sense of purpose—to create a space where families can learn about farming, food and nature while enjoying high-quality leisure experiences.
Today PLAY@, near Penkridge, is not only a thriving, multi-award-winning business, but a beacon of resilience and forward-thinking in the rural tourism and leisure sector.
Managing Director Richard Bower said: “When we launched PLAY@ in 2020 we did so in the middle of the most uncertain trading period in living memory. With COVID-19 restrictions in place we were forced to completely rethink our launch model - pivoting quickly from the original plan for a full indoor/outdoor attraction to a flexible, outdoor-only experience that complied with safety guidelines.
“This spirit of adaptability and creativity laid the foundations for everything that followed. As restrictions eased, we phased in more parts of the attraction, introduced safe and engaging seasonal events like Summer Unlocked and our first Drive-Thru farm experience, and steadily built trust with our growing audience.
“Far from stalling, the pandemic challenged us to do things differently and it’s a mindset we’ve kept ever since.”
Fast forward to 2025 and PLAY@ is now a multi-million-pound business with an ever-growing audience and national recognition. It was recently named runner-up in the 2025 NFAN Best Large Farm Attraction of the Year, standing shoulder to shoulder with long-established operators across the UK.
Visitor numbers have increased year-on-year, with a notable 25.8% rise from 2022 to 2023.
Richard added: “Behind our growth is a young, dynamic and diverse team, many of whom have grown with us. In the early days we had a small, multi-tasking team helping bring the concept to life. Today we employ a wide mix of permanent and seasonal staff, with structured training, clear roles and genuine investment in development.
“A key factor in our growth has been our commitment to continual innovation. We’ve not stood still or repeated the same event year-on-year, we’ve evolved. We listen, test, adapt and deliver.”
An additional indoor play space, deli café, sensory areas, party rooms and a Changing Places toilet to improve accessibility are due to open by autumn this year.
Play@ Lower Drayton Farm has entered the Growth, Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
The QUARTER at Potbank
Team of the Year entrant
From five staff and a £285,628 turnover in its first year, The QUARTER at Potbank has grown to employ 45 people and have a projected £2 million turnover.
Founded by Annmarie and Josef Bailey, The QUARTER at Potbank is a vibrant cultural and culinary hub based within the historic Spode site in Stoke town centre.
Since its inception the business has transformed the local high street by blending heritage preservation with contemporary hospitality, fostering community engagement and stimulating economic growth.
The venue’s distinctive character attracts both locals and tourists, contributing to the area’s cultural renaissance.
By day The QUARTER serves homemade meals in a family-friendly café setting. By night it transforms into a vibrant restaurant. This dual identity not only broadens its appeal but also encourages repeat visits, enhancing foot traffic on the high street.
The Factory Floor, its dedicated live entertainment space, hosts events including live music, comedy nights and tarot readings. These events provide a platform for local artists and performers, foster a vibrant arts scene and draw diverse audiences to the area.
The QUARTER offers venue hire for weddings, christenings, baby showers and other community gatherings, reinforcing its role as a communal gathering place.
Annmarie Bailey said: “Being based at the iconic Spode heritage site is more than just a location for us – it’s a privilege. This historic setting has given us the opportunity to blend Stoke-on-Trent’s rich cultural legacy with a vibrant, modern space that supports creativity, community and independent enterprise.
“From hosting weddings and live music, to championing local artists and makers, we’ve worked hard to create a venue that not only brings people together but breathes new life into a treasured part of our city’s history.
“We’re proud to be part of the regeneration of this site and even prouder to play a role in the ongoing evolution of Stoke’s high street and cultural scene.”
The QUARTER at Potbank has entered the High Street Impact, Growth, Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Wedding Belles Love
Team of the Year nominee
Claire Sutton left her career in a drugs team within the prison service to open a wedding dress shop – and it’s going so well she’s about to open a second branch.
Claire has been running Wedding Belles Love in Trentham Road, Longton alongside her daughter Darci since 2020.
Her working life couldn’t be more different from her previous career – she says it’s a joy to go to work when every day is filled with happiness.
“I decided to do something different after my father passed away,” she said. “I just wanted to do something fun and be surrounded by love. It’s a joy to go to work. I love it.”
They have added an extra changing room to the shop and are now working on opening a second branch, in a town centre location in Stoke-on-Trent.
Claire and Darci aim to be size inclusive, stocking every dress in every size from zero to 36.
“I bought the shop as an existing business from somebody else and when I tried on the dresses I found that I couldn’t fit into any of them even though I’m a size 12 for high street clothes,” said Claire.
“It’s really important in today’s world to ensure the experience of shopping for a dream dress is open to anyone. We’re very size inclusive and don’t want to disappoint anybody.
“We know how it feels to try on a dress and find it doesn’t fit so try to make sure that doesn’t happen to other people.
“We’ve built a reputation for making women feel seen, supported and confident no matter their size, style or budget.
“From the moment a bride walks in, she’s treated to a thoughtful, joyful experience which is often described as the highlight of her wedding journey.
“Through social media and our friendly podcast we educate and empower brides before they even visit, making the bridal experience feel less overwhelming and more fun.
“As a small, family-run business we’ve achieved real growth through care, connection and consistency. Every win we’ve had has been earned with heart and we’re proud to be a space where love and confidence always come first.”
Wedding Belles Love has entered the High Street Impact, Team of the Year and Small Business of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
The Inspirational Learning Group
Team of the Year entrant
The Inspirational Learning Group is a Staffordshire-based organisation specialising in providing career development and educational solutions to young people across the world.
Founded by University of Staffordshire alumni Ben and Michael Dyer in 2013 and initially based in a rented office on campus, the team has positively impacted more than 700,000 students through innovative learning programmes designed to develop career readiness and crucial employability skills.
Through collaboration with some of the UK’s most inspiring companies it develops engaging programmes for schools. Its flagship programme The National Careers Challenge is currently sponsored by Air Products, NatWest Thrive, British Airways and Wickes - and more than 50,000 young people across the country will take part in this programme in 2024/25.
In addition to a portfolio of challenges including teambuilding challenges and summer school programmes the team also produces bespoke school programmes for clients including JCB, NHS and the Financial Conduct Authority.
Its delivery teams will engage with more than 50,000 students in 260 schools through programmes during this academic year.
The Inspirational Learning Group co-founder Ben Dyer said: “Taking The National Careers Challenge global has always been an aspiration of The Inspirational Learning Group and following our involvement with China through a partnership with SKT Education and Beyond we were excited to launch TNCC to the UAE with AtkinsRéalis in 2024.
“We are thrilled to have enabled students in the UAE to experience The National Careers Challenge and we look forward to growing the challenge in UAE.”
Despite expanding globally The Inspirational Learning Group remains committed to opening upo opportunities for young people across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
The Inspirational Learning Group has entered the Small Business of the Year, Team of the Year and Business in the Community categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Inspired Film and Video
Team of the Year entrant
From funding an annual filmmaking grant for students at University of Staffordshire to supporting the LoveStoke100 initiative to help celebrate Stoke-on-Trent’s centenary year, Inspired Film and Video is determined to support communities within its home city.
Comprised largely of University of Staffordshire alumni, the company works for high-profile clients including Bostik, Waterworld, NHS Trusts and the University of Oxford.
In addition to employing a large number of local graduates over the years, Inspired regularly offers paid placements, freelance opportunities and structured work experience for young people across the city and county.
It has welcomed students from Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College, University of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent College into real productions on real sets and working on live briefs.
Business Development Director Michael McDonald said: “Our work is shaped by the place we call home. Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire have always been creative communities, grounded in industry and hard work.
“Whilst the region’s economic landscape has changed, we believe its spirit hasn’t. That same creativity now drives a new kind of industry, our industry, digital, visual and full of opportunity.
“We’re committed to helping young people across the area find their place within it. As a proud local business, our team draws direct inspiration from the people, places and stories of Staffordshire. It influences our storytelling, our visual approach and our sense of purpose.
“We know that to build a thriving digital sector here, we need to invest in talent, nurture ambition, and make sure that the next generation sees a future in creative services without having to leave the place they love.”
Michael has entered Inspired Film and Video into the Business in the Community category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards and has entered the company’s production crew into the Team of the Year category.
He added: “I see first-hand the direct link between the quality of our work and the strength of our team. Our production crew, Severin Gammon, Adam Georgiou, Jordan Mountford and Matt Hackney, aren’t just talented professionals. They are the driving force behind our continued growth, creative success and national reputation.
“It’s a privilege to nominate them for the Team of the Year award because they truly embody everything great teamwork should be: collaborative, committed, flexible and relentlessly passionate about delivering high-quality content.
“All four team members are graduates of University of Staffordshire and since joining Inspired they’ve become a core unit that defines what it means to work together. They don’t just co-exist, they collaborate.
“Whether they’re working on set, editing in post or brainstorming new creative directions they support one another fully. Their individual strengths complement each other perfectly but more importantly they’re always looking out for one another on set, in the office and outside of work.”
EPX Technical Services
Team of the Year entrant
EPX Technical Services is an IT support provider working closely with growing UK businesses to ensure their technology aligns with their objectives. Founded in 2005 by two passionate IT professionals, it has grown over the past two decades to employ 28 staff members and have a projected turnover of £2.6 million for 2025.
The Stafford-based company specialises in providing tailored IT solutions, cybersecurity and communication services, ensuring businesses operate efficiently, securely and with the ability to work seamlessly from anywhere.
With a strong focus on customer service and innovation, EPX has built a reputation for delivering high-quality IT support, helping clients improve efficiency, reduce costs and protect themselves from cyber threats.
CEO Dan Ellis is a vocal advocate for green IT initiatives and has pioneered the development of PC Powersave, an energy-saving solution that optimises power consumption across IT infrastructures. The software intelligently manages power usage, reducing energy costs and extending the lifespan of IT equipment. Initially tested within EPX, this solution is now being rolled out to businesses across the globe, helping them to reduce their environmental impact.
Managing Director Mark Pennington recently launched Insights, a system designed to streamline IT support for engineers. By using AI to reduce the time spent on individual IT tickets, the system enhances efficiency and allows engineers to focus on more complex tasks.
Mark Pennington said: “Our success as a business is a direct result of the incredible people who make up EPX. It is their dedication, passion and teamwork that have propelled us forward.
“More than just colleagues, we are a close-knit team that values collaboration, mutual support and continuous development.
“At the heart of EPX is a shared belief that success in our business comes not from individual achievements but from how well we work together, encourage one another’s strengths and align as one team to deliver the best possible service to our clients.”
“We believe that teamwork is about more than just working together - it’s about supporting, developing and inspiring one another to be the best we can be.
“From our values-led culture and structured development programmes to our focus on wellbeing and community impact, we have created an environment where every individual is valued, every voice is heard and every achievement is celebrated as a team.”
JLC Interiors Ltd
Team of the Year entrant
JLC Interiors Limited’s service is so bespoke its range is virtually limitless and it can work with rooms of any shape and size.
The Hednesford-based company designs, manufactures and fits bespoke fitted furniture for every room in the home including lounge units, media wall units, wardrobes, kitchens, home offices, understairs units and entertainment spaces.
Founded by husband and wife team Libby and John Chapman in January 2018, the business now has five staff working across manufacturing and the office.
John Chapman has been working in the furniture industry since his teens so it was a natural progression to start his own business.
JLC Interiors’s USP is that unlike some fitted furniture companies it isn’t limited by standard sizes. Everything created can be made bespoke to fit unique spaces and customer tastes.
Libby said: “We are a small family-owned business. There are a total of five people who work in both the factory and the office. We have deliberately remained small so that we can offer a service as good as our product.
“Every member of the team is committed, focussed and a team player. The team as a whole support each other and the success of the business is a testament to all of them.”
JLC Interiors Limited has entered the Small Business of the Year and Team of the Year categories of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
Iron Maidens Commercial Laundry
Team of the Year entrant
Iron Maidens Commercial Laundry Ltd aims to transform the commercial laundry industry with its strong focus on sustainability through innovation.
Operating in a sector traditionally associated with high energy and water consumption, the Newcastle-under-Lyme company has introduced cutting-edge technologies and in-house engineered solutions to reduce waste, conserve resources and support the hospitality industry’s journey towards net zero.
Iron Maidens Commercial Laundry has been serving the hospitality industry across Staffordshire, Cheshire and beyond for more than a decade. It works with hotels, restaurants and venues to provide a an eco-conscious linen solution.
What sets Iron Maidens apart is its close-knit team, where employees are more like family than colleagues. Many team members have been with the company for years, fostering a culture of trust, expertise and shared commitment to delivering exceptional service.
This strong team ethos has enabled Iron Maidens to continuously innovate, as employees are empowered to bring fresh ideas to the table and play an active role in shaping the company’s future.
Through a combination of energy-efficient equipment, bespoke chemical dosing systems and waste-reducing initiatives, the company is redefining industry standards and pioneering innovation in commercial laundry.
Innovations include investing in energy-efficient technology and the development of a bespoke, in-house-designed dosing system.
The company has moved to reusable and recyclable packaging with a zero-waste approach including eliminating the need for single-use plastic. The office has become paperless and is moving towards electric delivery vans to minimise its carbon footprint.
Iron Maidens has entered the Innovation Award and Team of the Year categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
John Pass Jewellers
Team of the Year entrant
In an age when many similar companies have moved online, third-generation family-owned business John Pass Jewellers is committed to having a strong, visible high street presence.
Launched in Crewe in 1948 the business is now run by Andrew Pass, the great-grandson of the original founder. A Newcastle-under-Lyme branch was opened 13 years ago. Having a strong, visible presence within the community in both areas is part of the business model.
“We are a big part of the community in Newcastle-under-Lyme and Crewe,” said John Pass Jewellers project manager Hannah Auras. “It’s a really important part of our business and means a lot to us.
“To mark our 75th year in business we carried out 75 moments of kindness to give back to the communities that have supported us to get to where we are today.”
Those moments of kindness included hosting a coffee morning, running 75 miles in 12 hours, donating to toy, clothes and food bank collections and volunteering for worthy causes.
The 75th moment of kindness was a charity quiz night that involved everyone who had been part of the 75 acts of kindness. The winning team was able to donate the prize money to their chosen charity.
This year the business’s team of around 25 staff are contributing to four major impact days to continue that work.
In 2022 John Pass Jewellers became one of the first carbon-neutral retail jewellers through measures including installing electric vehicle charging points, tree planting and community clean-up projects.
John Pass Jewellers has entered the High Street Impact, Business in the Community and Team of the Year categories of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
The Beaconside Group
Team of the Year nominee
The Beaconside Group in Stafford has established itself as a thriving hub of business, enterprise and community activity, defying industry trends to create a unique and expanding offering.
The 45-acre site is home to more than 50 businesses across a range of sectors, some employing more than 50 staff.
Alongside the business village there is a conference and events division and a sports and fitness centre, making Beaconside an integral part of the local economy.
It is run by a team of 10 staff who take care of everything from sales and maintenance to operations and finance.
The Beaconside Group’s staff have been nominated in the Team of the Year category of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards by Ben Dyer of The Inspirational Learning Group. Ben’s own business is based at Beaconside and he is also a consultant for the group.
He said: “The team ensures that every business, client and visitor feels supported, valued, and empowered. Their dedication extends far beyond providing services; they actively foster a collaborative and dynamic environment where enterprises can thrive, events can flourish and individuals can reach their full potential.
“The team operates with seamless efficiency, demonstrating an extraordinary level of teamwork, adaptability and commitment. Their ability to deliver exceptional service while juggling the diverse demands of a growing business and enterprise park is nothing short of outstanding.
“What sets this team apart is not just their ability to maintain and enhance a complex, multi-faceted business environment, but their relentless customer-centric approach. Whether supporting small start-ups or established enterprises, hosting high-profile events or ensuring the smooth running of fitness and sports facilities, they go above and beyond to meet the needs of every client.
“Their proactive problem-solving, hands-on approach and genuine enthusiasm make them more than just a team - they are the very heartbeat of Beaconside.
“It is for these reasons I am nominating the Beaconside Group team for Team of the Year. Their passion, dedication and resilience have driven not just business success but a thriving community that continues to grow and innovate.
“They exemplify what it means to work together towards a common vision, proving that with the right team anything is possible.”