ZigPath

Winner of the Conceptual Idea Category. The platform turning support roles into career paths.

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This  Conceptual Idea Category focuses on validating market demand; it requires demonstrable evidence that a proposed idea addresses a genuine, existing need within a sufficient target audience.

  • Zigpath gives schools a simple way to recognise, retain, and grow the people who keep them running.
  • ZigPath is a career progression platform built for the 450,000+ support staff in the UK.
  • Staff can track their skills, log experiences, gain clear routes for progression. 
  • HR teams get a central dashboard to track development, recognise talent, and promote internally. 

Plans for next 6 months include Market research, MVP development, Visibility and to  begin preparing for the pilot phase in early 2026 and line up 3 - 5 potential schools. 

I’m grateful to have been given the chance to take something I’m truly passionate about and turn it into action. ZigPath is inspired by the everyday experiences of support staff — people who deserve more recognition, more structure, and more opportunity. For me, this award isn’t just a win — it’s the first step towards change. It means a lot to know that others see the need, believe in the mission, and are willing to back it. This is just the beginning, and I’m excited to keep building something that can make a real difference in schools.

Stephanie Wamunuko

Founder 

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A global reputation

Sheffield is a world top-100 research university with a global reputation for excellence. We're a member of the Russell Group: one of the 24 leading UK universities for research and teaching.