Maureen Duke Educational Award 2026: Applications Now Open

We are pleased to announce that applications are now invited for the 2026 Maureen Duke Educational Award, jointly sponsored by the Society of Bookbinders and the Norie Trust. With extra funds from the Society the award this year is increased to £5,000.

The award is open to a bookbinder, book conservator, book restorer or book artist working professionally in the UK who plans to start or continue teachingand passing on their skills. Applications require a CV, references, an outline of your development plans, and images of recent work. 

The closing date is Friday 3 July 2026 and the winner will be announced at the National AGM on 14 August at the 2026 Conference in York.

FULL DETAILS AND HOW TO APPLY

For any questions, please contact Jill Sellars at [email protected].

2025 Award

Last year's recipient was Felicity Bristow, recognised for her work combining sculptural practice with traditional bookbinding techniques and her commitment to teaching. In her own words:

I'm truly honoured to receive the Maureen Duke Educational Award for 2025. This support is enabling me to deepen my skills in fine binding and expand my teaching practice, while continuing to explore the artistry of the book as a sculptural and expressive form. My sincere thanks to the Trust and Adjudicators.