Watch the 2026 Awards & Gala Dinner highlights

 

 

1. Who can enter the awards?
Any individual driving instructor, driving school (local, regional, or national), or supplier to the industry is eligible. There are categories to suit a wide range of contributions and achievements. Nominations open on 1st November 2026.

2. Is there a cost to enter?
No, entry is completely free. We want to make recognition accessible to everyone in the industry, regardless of size or budget.

3. What are the award categories?
There are 20 categories, including Instructor of the Year, Driving School of the Year, and recent additions like Road Safety Initiative of the Year and Social Media Influencer of the Year. Could there be a new category for 2027?

4. What are the key dates to note for the awards timeline?
1st November 2026 – Nominations open
4th December 2026 – Entry deadline
14th December 2026 – Shortlist announced and public voting opens
1st February 2027 – Judging panel submits scores
5th February 2027 – Public voting closes

13th March 2027 – Winners announced at the Intelligent Instructor Gala Dinner

BOOK YOUR 2027 RESIDENTIAL GALA DINNER TICKET

5. How are winners chosen?
Winners are selected through a combination of public voting and independent judging. This ensures both community support and expert evaluation.

6. Can I enter more than one category?
Yes! You’re welcome to enter multiple categories if they’re relevant to your work. Just make sure each entry is tailored to the specific criteria.

7. What makes a strong entry?
Clear evidence of impact, innovation, professionalism, and passion. Share your story, results, and what sets you apart, whether it’s learner outcomes, creative campaigns, or community engagement. 

8. How do I submit my entry?
Follow the entry instructions for your chosen category and email your entry to the [email protected] by 4th December 2026.

For most categories you will be able to download an entry form, which includes full guidance and entry requirements. Simply complete your submission and return it before the entry deadline.

The Driving Instructor of the Year category is unique and judged differently from all others. Nominations come directly from learners and past pupils, celebrating those instructors who have truly gone above and beyond to support their students. Intelligent Instructor will canvass over 100,000 learners and newly qualified drivers to encourage nominations. Instructors are also invited to share the nomination link with their pupils — past and present — to increase their chances of being recognised. The judging panel will then review the top 100 entries, select 11 regional winners, and ultimately determine one overall national champion.

9. What do winners receive?
Gold, Silver, and Bronze trophies are awarded in each category, along with national recognition, media coverage, and a boost to your professional profile.

10. When and where is the awards ceremony?
Winners will be announced at the Intelligent Instructor Gala Dinner on Saturday, 13rd March 2027 in Eastwood Hall, Nottingham, held the evening before the Driving Instructor Convention.

11. Are residential packages available?
Yes! Residential packages include:
• A ticket to the Intelligent Instructor Gala Dinner
• Overnight accommodation at the venue with breakfast
• A conference ticket for Sunday’s Convention
• Lunch and refreshments throughout the conference day

BOOK YOUR 2027 RESIDENTIAL TICKET

12. Can residential guests use the leisure facilities on-site?
Absolutely. Residential guests have complimentary access to the on-site  leisure facilities.

13. What is the schedule for the Gala Dinner?
2027 schedule pending. The 2026 Gala Dinner schedule gives you an example of how the night flows
• 18:30 –  19:15 Drinks reception
• 19:15 – 20:45 Dining
• 20:45 – 23:00 Live entertainment (comedian), Intelligent Instructor Awards trophy presentation and Speed of Sight charity auction & raffle
• 23:00 – late Networking in the main bar area.

14. What is the dress code for the gala dinner?
Smart. Please put on your glad rags for the driving instructor party of the year! We’re encouraging men to wear jackets and black ties (if you have one), and ladies to dust down those cocktail dresses.

17. Who can I contact with general questions about the event?
For general event enquiries, please contact:
Gina Storrs
[email protected]
08454747035

18. I’m interested in exhibiting or sponsoring, who should I speak to?
We’d love to hear from you! For all sales, marketing, and sponsorship opportunities, for both the Intelligent Instructor Awards and The Driving Instructor Convention, please contact:
Rachael Butler, Sales and Marketing Director
[email protected]
07974 186445

19. Terms & Conditions to be aware of for all entrants

By entering the Intelligent Instructor Awards, entrants agree to abide by these terms:
• Entries must be truthful, complete, and submitted by the deadline.
• Information provided will only be shared with judges for the purposes of assessment.
• Judges’ decisions are final, and no correspondence will be entered into.
• Shortlisted entrants are expected to attend the Intelligent Instructor Gala Dinner, and have their ticket booked by 23rd February 2027.
• Failure to attend, or have a representative present, may result in withdrawal from the final shortlist.

20. How do I get in touch if I have a question or query?
Please email [email protected] and we’ll get back to you swiftly.