Jane announced as region’s most outstanding Higher Level Teaching Assistant by the University of Northampton

The University of Northampton is pleased to announce that Jane Fenn from Ryhall C of E Academy, Ryhall, Rutland, has been named 2017’s most outstanding Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) for the East Midlands.

The award was aimed at teaching assistants who have gained Higher Level Teaching Assistant status through the University of Northampton. The initiative is a partnership between the East Midlands Regional Provider of Assessment and the HLTA National Assessment Partnership, and seeks to recognise the valuable role HLTAs play in schools.

A panel of education professionals from a range of settings within the region narrowed candidates down to a shortlist of four. Candidates were assessed on the following criteria:

• Their contribution to advancing pupils’ learning utilising their own specialist knowledge
• Their high aspirations for all pupils and their support in achieving this
• Their commitment to their own continued professional learning
• Their commitment to the wider school community.

Jane was accompanied by her fellow finalists, Ann Archer from Bridgewater Primary School, Northampton, Tonia Cook from Swinderby All Saints Primary School, Swinderby, Lincolnshire and Ann Hadfield from Asquith Primary School, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire at a recent awards ceremony.

Wendy Yarnall, HLTA Project Manager, East Midlands, who is also a Senior Lecturer in Education at the University, said: “The panel was most impressed by the standard of work and commitment evidenced in the nominations which were made by senior colleagues at their schools and we commend all the finalists.

“It is clear that HLTAs are highly regarded members of staff and play a key role within their school community which impacts directly on the learning and life chances of the pupils they work with.”

Jane will now go on to represent the East Midlands at the National HLTA of the Year Award, in November.