ETIH Innovation Awards 2026: judges spotlight on Catherine Buckler
We’re pleased to welcome Catherine Buckler to the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 judging panel, bringing expertise in whole-school EdTech leadership, AI research, and curriculum innovation.
As part of our ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 spotlight series, we’re continuing to announce the judges who will review entries across this year’s categories.
Each judge has been selected for practical experience, sector insight, and the ability to assess impact in real education settings. We’re pleased to welcome Catherine Buckler to the judging panel, whose work spans digital innovation leadership, academic research, and classroom practice.
Judge profile
Catherine Buckler serves as Digital Innovation Lead and Head of Geography at Sydenham High School, part of the Girls’ Day School Trust. With more than 15 years of teaching and leadership experience, she combines subject leadership with responsibility for digital strategy and AI implementation across her school community.
Buckler is currently completing a Doctorate in Education at the University of Bath. Her research critically examines how major technology companies frame the adoption of artificial intelligence in education, offering school leaders insight into the narratives, pressures, and policy signals shaping EdTech decision-making.
In addition to her research, Buckler supports AI implementation across a large school trust and co-chairs the GDST AI Committee. Her expertise includes staff professional development, curriculum design, environmental education, and the integration of geographic information systems into teaching practice.
Her professional focus centers on ensuring technology is adopted in ways that are balanced, evidence-informed, and aligned with the needs of students and staff. Having led improvements in pupil outcomes through curriculum innovation and digital strategy, she brings both academic and operational perspective to the judging panel.
Enter the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026
Entries for the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 are now open. Submissions are reviewed by an independent judging panel made up of education leaders, researchers, and practitioners, including judges such as Catherine Buckler, Neil Almond, Al Kingsley OBE and Tina Austin.
To enter, download an entry form or submit via the entry link. The deadline for submissions is Friday, 27 March 2026, with winners announced in April 2026.
For questions or further information, please contact Director of Content Emma Thompson.
