For anyone committed to shaping the future of accountancy education, PQmagazine has long been a trusted, values‑driven voice. More than a trade publication, PQ Magazine consistently champions innovation, accessibility and humanity within professional education — qualities that were powerfully on display at the PQ Awards 2026.
The annual PQ Awards are not simply about trophies or headlines. They exist to shine a light on the people and organisations who quietly, persistently, and creatively raise standards across accounting education. From groundbreaking learning resources and fresh teaching approaches to meaningful social media engagement and community‑driven initiatives, the awards recognise the full ecosystem that supports tomorrow’s accountants long before they qualify.
One of the most refreshing aspects of the PQ Awards is their breadth. Accounting education is no longer confined to classrooms, textbooks or exams alone. Today’s students learn through video, social platforms, peer networks, mentoring and real‑world context — and the PQ Awards reflect that evolution.
Categories celebrate:
In doing so, PQ Magazine reinforces an important message: education is not static, and excellence is not one‑dimensional. The future of the profession depends on educators and influencers who meet learners where they are, while also modelling the ethics, professionalism and empathy the role demands.
The 2026 ceremony was a vibrant reminder of just how much dedication, creativity and care exists across the education sector. It brought together training providers, educators, professional bodies and industry partners — all united by a shared goal: empowering the next generation of accountants.
This year’s ceremony included a particularly powerful moment as James Read received the Editor’s Special Award.
While the award recognises outstanding impact in education, this recognition went far beyond technical excellence alone. James was honoured not only for his tireless work supporting AAT students, but also for the humanitarian support he provides to communities in Ukraine — personally delivering vital supplies into a war zone.
In recognising this work, PQ Magazine sent a clear and important message: professional influence carries responsibility, and leadership is defined as much by values as by results.
You can watch highlights from the evening and hear more about the award here:🎥 PQ Awards 2026 video
The evening also saw a well‑deserved Hall of Fame Award presented to Stuart Pedley‑Smith, an Education Consultant with HTFT.
This prestigious award recognises a sustained and significant contribution to accounting education over many years — and Stuart’s impact across the sector is undeniable. Through his work as an education consultant, he has supported providers, educators and learners alike, helping to shape high‑quality learning experiences that genuinely make a difference to student outcomes.
Hall of Fame recognition is not simply about longevity; it is about influence, consistency and commitment to raising standards. Stuart’s achievement is a testament to the vital role that experienced, passionate educators play behind the scenes in ensuring the profession continues to move forward.
Many congratulations to Stuart on his outstanding contributions to education and richly deserved honour.
As educators and training providers, we often talk about ethics, professionalism and employability skills. But lessons land hardest when they are lived, not lectured.
The PQ Awards remind students that:
For those entering the profession, seeing educators celebrated for compassion, leadership and social responsibility helps redefine what achievement truly looks like. It reinforces the idea that accountants are not just technicians, but trusted advisers and contributors to society.
In a profession navigating rapid change, PQ Magazine continues to keep education human. By recognising innovation alongside empathy — and expertise alongside impact — the magazine and its awards elevate the entire sector.
The PQ Awards 2026 were not just a celebration of success, but a reminder of shared responsibility: to students, to the profession, and to the communities we serve. Honouring work like that of James Read highlights that the future of accountancy is not only skilled, but principled, engaged and compassionate.
And that is something truly worth celebrating.
