All TA Recognition Day 2024 Nominations are in!

The countdown to TA Recognition Day on November 29th, 2024, is underway, and we are thrilled to announce the shortlist for this year’s awards! These incredible Teaching Assistants (TAs) exemplify the dedication, compassion, and creativity that make such a difference in schools across the UK.

With over 100 nominations received from schools in areas including Swansea, Bristol, Newcastle, Southampton, Manchester, and Dorset, it’s clear just how vital TAs are to the success of our schools. Each nominee has a story that inspires, from extraordinary moments of problem-solving to everyday acts of kindness that transform classrooms.

Our judging panel, comprised of education professionals, is currently reviewing the entries to select winners across four categories:

• SEN Champion
• Best New TA
• Outstanding Support in the Classroom
• Community & Wellbeing Engagement

An overall National Winner will also be chosen, and all winners will be announced on TA Recognition Day.

A Snapshot of the Heartwarming Nominations

The nominations highlighted the extraordinary impact TAs have, not just on students but on colleagues and entire school communities. Here are some of the inspiring stories that stood out:

• One TA was described as “an awesome problem solver,” going above and beyond to meet the needs of a student by bringing in her own materials to make mock exams more comfortable.
• Another nominee, who has supported vulnerable children and families, was praised for her ability to “enable children to be regulated for learning and give them emotional support,” creating a positive ripple effect throughout the school.
• A TA who has served for over 30 years was celebrated for her unwavering kindness, dedication, and ability to handle every challenge with a smile, even being recognised by students decades later.
• One submission called their nominee “Wonderwoman” for her tireless efforts supporting bereaved children, those with additional needs, and families experiencing anxiety.

These stories are just a snapshot of the incredible work being done every day by TAs, often behind the scenes, but always with a profound impact.

The Next Steps

The nominations for our TA Recognition Day Awards have been nothing short of inspiring, with heartwarming and deeply moving statements showcasing the dedication, kindness, and impact Teaching Assistants have on schools, students, and communities. The shortlisted candidates are now being evaluated by our panel, who face the difficult task of selecting the winners. These awards are not only a celebration of the shortlisted TAs but also a recognition of the essential role TAs play in education.

We’re also calling on schools and colleagues to share additional details about their nominees, helping us highlight the full scope of their achievements on the big day and we can’t wait to share these with you.

Join Us on November 29th

TA Recognition Day is a chance for all of us to pause and celebrate the incredible contributions of Teaching Assistants. Whether they’re helping students overcome challenges, supporting teachers in the classroom, or creating safe and welcoming environments, TAs truly give so much.

We can’t wait to share the stories of our winners and shine a spotlight on their achievements. Stay tuned for the announcement on November 29th, and join us in recognising the heart and soul of our schools.