A big thank you
Nominations praise excellent teachers
In the last days of term and first few weeks of the holidays, scores of parents, children and young people throughout the UK have sent heartfelt tributes and end-of-term ‘thank you’s to the Teaching Awards.
Making a nomination online, one grateful GCSE student writes: ‘Dr L is the best teacher who makes learning fun and exciting. He has been so supportive of us throughout our GCSEs and is always there for extra support and help. We love him!’
Another pupil pays tribute to a truly memorable teacher: ‘Mr H makes all his lessons fun and interesting (even the most boring subjects ever). He encourages people to reach their full potential -- my grades have jumped three levels in a year. He makes us look forward to our lessons, is kind and he still gets everyone to behave.’
Some students really appreciate how fast they have improved under a good teacher’s influence: ‘When our Year 9 class first started with Mr A we were probably one of the most easily distracted classes. But the way he comes across is more of a friend than a teacher and he will demonstrate anything to show how you can prove things scientifically. He has totally inspired every one and my grades have shot up. Mr A is an inspiration to me and a lot of other people. I just want him to know that. Thanks.’
In mid-July, just as the long holidays were beginning, one appreciative parent nominated a teaching assistant who works one-to-one with her disabled child: ‘Mrs C is calm, caring and approachable and we could not wish for anyone better to champion the complex needs of our son. While she may not be changing the face of education, she is providing the most valuable service a parent could ask for – a safe and secure environment for a child who needs support in a world he little understands. Most of all, her modest nature means she would be astounded that we could think so much of her, but she is truly fantastic woman who is very deserving of an award.’
Anyone can nominate an outstanding individual at www.teachingawards.com. More than 50 per cent of 2010 nominations are expected to come from parents and pupils.
