Across the country, we’re honouring these exceptional individuals, with awards being presented during Friday celebration assemblies in schools. Over the coming weeks, we’ll share photos and reactions from the winners—stay tuned for updates!

TA Recognition Day occurs on the last Friday of November!

Here’s a look at some of this year’s amazing winners and the heartwarming stories behind their achievements:

Best New Teaching Assistant

Lyn (Southampton): Lyn’s exceptional care and problem-solving skills have made a real difference. Her dedication to students’ wellbeing is remarkable, from bringing in latex sheets to protect a student’s hand during exams to sourcing high-quality paper to help them feel comfortable. As her colleagues put it, Lyn is “a lovely human being and an awesome problem solver.”

Tracey (Birmingham): In just her first week, Tracey made an unforgettable impression, welcoming her teacher with chocolate muffins and warmth. Her kindness and effort to build a sense of community have made her an invaluable member of the Year 1 team.

Community and Wellbeing Engagement

Eleanor (Bristol): Eleanor is a lifeline for vulnerable children and their families. Whether offering Thrive support, aiding with transitions, or assisting families through Early Help, she ensures that students are emotionally ready to learn each day.

Helen (Bristol): Dubbed “Wonderwoman” by her colleagues, Helen supports children and families dealing with bereavement, anxiety, and additional needs. Her intuition and tireless dedication make her the heart of the school.

Outstanding Support in the Classroom

Leanne (Newcastle): From Reception to Year 5, Leanne’s unwavering positivity and commitment ensure every child receives the best support. Her colleagues describe her as always putting the children’s best interests first.

Sue (Dorset/Devon/Cornwall): With over 30 years of service, Sue has positively impacted thousands of lives at Sherborne Primary. Whether covering classes at a moment’s notice or supporting staff, she’s the embodiment of dedication and kindness.

Rebecca (Leeds): Returning from maternity leave, Rebecca has seamlessly stepped back into her role, creating resources and routines to support students. She’s a highly valued member of the team.

Nathan (Manchester): Nathan’s willingness to tackle challenges head-on, from supporting classroom behaviours to helping manage staffing, makes him an irreplaceable asset to his school.

SEN Champion

Rebecca (Manchester SEN): Rebecca’s exceptional dedication to children with special educational needs goes far beyond expectations. From extensive medical training to providing emotional and physical support, she’s a true Florence Nightingale of her school.

Erika (Southampton): Erika’s work with EAL students and her commitment to learning their languages to provide better support exemplify her extraordinary effort. This year, she also completed a Mental Health First Aid qualification to extend her role further.

A Big Thank You to All Teaching Assistants!

Teaching Assistants play a pivotal role in shaping young lives and fostering inclusive learning environments. This TA Recognition Day, we thank them for their hard work and dedication. Join us in celebrating these unsung heroes!

Stay tuned as we share moments from the celebrations in schools over the next few weeks!