Barbadian Adrian Rollins, a former County cricketer, won The Educational Leadership Excellence category at the Potential Unlocked Awards ceremony on 2nd February 2024 in Birmingham. Even more fitting as the event was held at Edgbaston Cricket Stadium, one of the grounds he played on.
The Education Leadership Excellence Award celebrates education leaders who innovate, inspire academic excellence, and uplift the education community, showcasing diverse, impactful role models.
Awardee Adrian Rollins, 52, retired from professional cricket at age 30 in 2003 after badly breaking his wrist while diving for a catch, said: “It has not been an easy transition.” His hard work and diligence led to him becoming head of School at Heath Park School in Wolverhampton, having worked in the UK education sector for two decades, teaching in nine different schools. Rollins finds himself among a small minority of Black males who have managed to make it into senior leadership positions in his profession.
Rollins said he was honoured to have received the award and equally honoured to be among some young, aspirational teachers who are making a difference.
He continued, “Black males in teaching are underrepresented by startling proportions, of which a meagre 0.7% are headteachers. This must change, and I’m determined to make a difference in whatever small way that I can.”
His mother, Marva Rollins OBE, retired from headship in August 2019 after 24+ years of leading two schools; said, “It was an exceptionally inspirational evening. “Well done to all who were recommended for an award. Someone has spotted your skills, knowledge, and talents. Know that you are seen. Well done to all the finalists and winners.”

On the judging panel were Eastenders actor Rudolph Walker, Samuel Kasumu (advisor to ex-Prime Minister Boris Johnson), and Bishop Claion Grandison (leader of the New Testament Church of God UK). Dr. Dennis Kimbro, renowned American author of ‘Think & Grow Rich – A Black Choice,’ was the guest keynote speaker, inspiring attendees with his wisdom.