TEACHERS from the Post area have won prestigious awards in recognition for their work with young people and their schools.

From Penzance to Saltash, teaching and learning professionals working in Cornwall’s schools and colleges were given the recognition they deserved at the glittering Cornwall Teacher Awards 2018 ceremony on Friday, May 4.

Held at Truro Cathedral, winners, nominees and guests were treated to an evening of celebration for those who have dedicated their outstanding work to positively impact Cornwall’s children and young people.

Trevor Lee, MD at Trevor Lee Media, hosted the event. The keynote speaker was Lisa Mannell, regional schools commissioner for the South West. This year, there were 16 awards up for grabs, including ‘outstanding headteacher’, ‘outstanding school’ and ‘outstanding student wellbeing initiative’.

Plymouth University sponsored the student nominated teacher of the year, and this year the award went to Daniel Wendon from Launceston College.

Judges said: “This submission is a remarkable description of how a teacher can change a young person’s future.”

The nomination read: “He may feel he is simply doing his job, fulfilling a role, but when someone has been able to offer me the time, assistance, encouragement and confidence to achieve beyond my greatest expectations, they at least deserve acknowledgement. I cannot be more grateful.”

The outstanding special education needs teacher of the year award was sponsored by Cornwall Music Service Trust, and went to Jo Wills from South Petherwin School.

Judges reiterated one of the nominations for Jo: “All children need is a little help, a little hope, and somebody who believes in them — that person is Miss Wills.”

The award for outstanding FE lecturer of the year, sponsored by awarding organisation NOCN, went to Rebecca Ball from Duchy College.

Judges said: “Rebecca has a 100% employment record for students who finish her course and now employers even call Rebecca to ask for her students. The statistic obviously speaks for itself, but Rebecca was also nominated for having an admiral dedication and a passion for teaching.”

Arts teacher of the year was sponsored by Plymouth College of Art and was awarded to Tamsin Titcomb who works at St Mabyn and St Tudy primary schools.

Judges said: “Tamsin brings art to life for the children. She encourages them to try new techniques such as weaving, puppet-making, story sticks, model house building whilst honing tried and tested skills.

“She believes that art always has a purpose, such as engaging in local history, or learning about Greek mythology. She has a way of breaking down the children’s art lessons so that all can and do achieve.”

School support worker of the year was sponsored by Acorn and went to Sammie Swabey from Callywith College.

Judges said: “Great to see a receptionist recognised in this way. So often it’s the little things that can be missed, and first impressions are so important. Sammie has clearly played a pivotal role in ensuring a new college operates effectively from day one.”

Nikki Baron from EMPRA PR and Marketing said: “Once again Truro Cathedral was filled with such worthy winners — it was a fabulous and emotional evening.

“We hoped that this year’s event would be even bigger and better than last year’s, and it was — the cathedral was packed, and I am delighted! It’s one of those properly heart-warming events, when you think back and reflect on your experience your heart gives a little flutter.”