English Association’s Fellows Award 2026

The Sixth Form College Colchester are proud to announce that Head of English Clarissa Ford has recently been announced as I recipient of the English Association’s Fellows Award 2026.

This award is one of the most prestigious honours in the field of English Studies. Presented annually at the EA’s conference, it recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to English language, literature, or creative writing through advocacy, public engagement, student support, network-building, or widening access. Recipients join an elite, invitation-only community of Fellows, comprised of writers, academics, educators, librarians, journalists, and publishers, who use the designation FEA, underscoring their distinguished service to the discipline

Felicity Latus, from the English team, who made the initial nomination, explained that Clarissa has worked at the College for 23 years and is widely respected for her commitment to students, colleagues, and the subject of English. Her influence reaches far beyond the classroom, shaping opportunities for young people and teachers across the local area and beyond.

She has played a key role in bringing people together through a long running local Heads of English network, creating a space where school and college teachers, university academics and writers can share ideas, support one another and raise aspirations. Many colleagues locally credit this work with strengthening collaboration and ambition across English education.

Clarissa is especially passionate about widening access for students from state education. She has worked closely with the University of Essex and others to give students free access to lectures, performances and writers they might otherwise never encounter, always with a focus on confidence, curiosity, and fairness.

At the heart of her work is care for students. Clarissa is known for her inclusive approach, her sensitivity to student wellbeing, and her belief that young people should see their lives and voices reflected in what they study. She has been a strong advocate for fairness in assessment and has quietly supported schools, charities and libraries through campaigning, research, and practical help.

Clarissa Ford’s work is marked by integrity, generosity, and a deep belief in education as a force for opportunity. She is an outstanding ambassador for English and for the profession.

Principal Jo Cadman said that “we were delighted to hear that Clarissa had won this award; she thoroughly deserves it for her hard work and commitment to the discipline of English and to the students of Colchester and beyond over many years”