TWO Tavistock primary schools are celebrating after receiving commendations in the 2005 South West Teaching Awards on Monday. An award for special needs teacher of the year went to Jacqueline Freedman of Tavistock Primary School and St Rumons Infants School was honoured for its healthy policies and practices with staff member Sue Gawman also receiving an award for teaching assistant of the year. The excellence in education awards received a record 5,000 nominations for the nine categories this year, with 19 individuals and schools being recognised. Mrs Freedman, nominated by her former headteacher Anthony Wates MBE in October last year, said she was really pleased. ?It is a recognition of the outstanding work that Tavistock Primary School has achieved to include children with a wide range of needs,? she said. ?On a personal level I have been delighted to be able to make a difference to children?s lives and the lives of their families over the years.? Current headteacher of Tavistock Primary School Jo Flynn said Jacqueline looked at the whole experience of the child, both inside and outside of school and ?went that extra mile.? ?Her knowledge and expertise are second to none - Jacqueline could quite easily be a headteacher anywhere but her vocation is working with children with special needs,? he said. Sue Gawman was praised for raising self esteem and showing value in children?s achievements, however small the steps. Sue said she loved her job, having changed her career from banking two years ago. ?The children make the job and I work with a great team of people,? she said. Wake up songs and exercise, two hours of PE a week, healthy snacks and a peer support scheme all contributed to St Rumon?s getting its healthy school award.
