AT OUR second annual Standard Education Awards, we celebrated the important work of teaching assistants with our Teaching Assistant of the Year Award.

The event, which took place on Friday, July 12, was hosted by ITV journalist and broadcaster Lucy Meacock, at the Hilton DoubleTree Hotel.

We recognised those from across Chester and Ellesmere Port's education community who strive to ensure that our young people are provided with the best tools with which to learn and progress.

Crucial to this process are teaching assistants who ensure that lessons run smoothly, and that each pupil is given the care and attention that allows them to perform at their best.

As with each of the categories at this years awards, the response was overwhelming and we are grateful to everyone who sent in a nomination and made it very difficult for us to pick a winner.

Our finalists for the Teaching Assistant of the Year Award are:

  • Jo Tarbuck, Belgrave Primary School
  • Gemma Ison, Maple Grove School
  • Sarah Cotton, Cherry Grove Primary School

And our winner of the Teaching Assistant of the Year Award is:

  • Gemma Ison, Maple Grove School

Speaking to Lucy Meacock, Gemma said: “I feel so overwhelmed and honoured to have won this award.”

"[Standing in front of an audience] is my worst nightmare, I don’t like doing this bit,” she laughed.

“But I do everything that I can at school because I want to help the pupils in our care and their families.”

“I love my job, and I get to work with a wonderful bunch of people as well.”

Maple Grove School said via social media: “We are incredibly proud to announce that our very own Gemma has been awarded ‘Teaching Assistant of the Year’ at the Chester Standard Education Awards!

“Gemma's dedication, passion, and big smile have made a significant impact on our young people and Maple Grove community.”