Dragons, awards – and a reflection on improving education

What a month December was. I am totally committed to helping today's kids have a better, more relevant education, and it was great to do something practical towards that, as well as be recognised for the efforts we have made so far.

First, it was off to Marlow to meet up with entrepreneur Peter Jones, and sit with him on a panel to review the candidates for his forthcoming academy. It promises to be a great opportunity for those who make it; and I hope it will create a new culture in education, providing young people with a feel for the options they have in the world of business.

Then I was off to London for a presentation, to receive a National Education Business Partnership Network Award; a bit of a mouthful, but recognising Urban Media's involvement in helping build the partnership in south Bucks. It was really thanks to the Education Business Partnership team at Bucks County Council that I received the award.

Our involvement with education has been great so far. Not least, because our support for the diploma has put Urban Media around the same table as well-known brands including JCB, Vodafone and John Lewis.