The council share this latest news. Ed
The Isle of Wight Council’s Adult Community Learning Service has announced the winner of the Laura Groves Award for Community and Family Involvement.
This year’s recipient of the award was Amanda Henley from St Blasius Shanklin CE Primary Academy. Amanda was nominated by colleagues citing her dedication over the last two decades.
Leader and Councillor Jonathan Bacon, Executive member responsible for education, said:
“I am delighted Amanda has received the Laura Groves award for her outstanding work. Her achievements, dedication and the relationships she has built up with pupils and parents are a testament to her.
“Her colleague’s high praise of her ability to build such effective relationships and her selfless attitude to supporting others are an inspiration to all of us.”
Celebrating Amanda’s award, her colleagues said:
“Amanda started at Shanklin CE Primary School as a college student before being employed as a teaching assistant in 1997. Over the past 19 years, she has broadened her skills and expertise. Due to her outstanding relationships with pupils, parents and the community, her role has evolved into that of Family Liaison Officer.
“She is a constant, approachable presence in the school, able to deal with anything. There have been many instances where she has gone above and beyond what her role involves. She is a safe haven for many pupils and parents to talk about their problems or ask for support. Whatever the circumstances or problems, Amanda maintains a smiling face and positive attitude which has had an immeasurable effect on our school.”
The Laura Groves Award
The Laura Groves award is given to a member of school or early year’s staff who enables, encourages and supports families and members of the community to be involved in school life.
The Award is presented in memory of Laura Groves, who was a teacher at Downside Middle School, and is supported by the Adult Community Learning Service and Pan Management Company, as part of the legacy of the Pan Neighbourhood Pathfinder project.
Laura understood the issues, empathised with families and removed obstacles. She was involved in the changing of the Family Learning Curriculum to better support Key Stage 2 children and families.
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