Senior Learning and Development Coordinator Poppy Tuppenny Wins Prestigious Caroline Tuff Award for Excellence

CIRO is delighted to announce that Poppy Tuppenny, Senior Learning and Development Coordinator, has been awarded the Caroline Tuff Award for Academic Excellence following her graduation from the Certificate of Higher Education in Railway Operations Management at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) last week.

This distinguished award recognises outstanding academic achievement and honours the memory of the late Caroline Tuff, who led the GCU/CIRO Railway Operations Management programmes and was a supportive colleague and friend to both organisations. Poppy’s dedication, diligence, and passion for the industry make her a truly deserving recipient.

A Passion for Learning and the Railway Industry

Throughout her studies, Poppy demonstrated exceptional understanding of the core principles of railway operations and consistently applied her learning in practical and innovative ways. Her high standards, conscientious approach, and determination to excel set her apart, culminating in the programme’s highest academic honour.

Reflecting on her achievement, Poppy said:

“I’m incredibly honoured to receive the Caroline Tuff Award. It’s a humbling recognition, especially knowing the significance of this award and the legacy it represents. The learning experience has been invaluable, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the railway sector with the knowledge I’ve gained.”

Admired by colleagues and industry peers alike, Poppy is known for her professionalism, warmth, and commitment to supporting others—qualities that shine through in both her studies and her work at CIRO.

Honouring Caroline Tuff’s Legacy

Introduced in 2024, the Caroline Tuff Award is presented annually to the top-performing student across the GCU/CIRO Railway Operations Management programmes. Created in honour of Caroline’s outstanding contribution, the award reflects her dedication to students’ success and her lasting impact on the academic partnership.

CIRO Chief Operating Officer, Adam Fenton, shared his pride in Poppy’s success:

“Poppy exemplifies the very qualities that Caroline championed – dedication, academic excellence, and a genuine passion for learning. She has been a vital member of our team at CIRO, and her success in this programme is a reflection of her hard work and commitment to continuous learning. We are thrilled to see her recognised with this prestigious award.”

As Senior Learning and Development Coordinator, Poppy already champions learning within the organisation; her own academic success will further enhance her ability to guide and inspire others within CIRO and throughout the wider rail community.

CIRO congratulates Poppy on this exceptional and well-deserved recognition. Her achievement not only celebrates personal excellence but also upholds the spirit of learning and dedication that Caroline Tuff brought to the GCU/CIRO partnership.

Applications for the October 2025 intake for the Certificate, Diploma, and Degree programmes open in Spring but we encourage railway professionals interested in an academic programme to register their interest here: https://www.ciro.org/register/

For more information about CIRO and GCU’s academic programmes, contact our team at learning@railwayoperators.co.uk