Teach Portsmouth Awards

Mrs Gough is always ready to listen and always has the children's best interests at heart. She listens to both parents and children and I feel my child is very safe and happy in her care.

Miss McQuilken goes above and beyond to meet my child's SEND needs and creates an inclusive, safe and welcoming environment. She takes the time to check in with my child around the school when she sees them as well as within the classroom. She is the safety net my child has needed for their transition to senior school. We are extremely thankful, thank you Miss McQuilken.

It's hard to put in 150 words, the energy, passion and determination for students to achieve Sammy continues to deliver to her students. She remains student focused 100% of the time and ensures that every student achieves something whilst at college. Success looks different to all of our students and Sammy utilises every tool in her arsenal to make sure this happens. Not only does she continue to support students, but her students raised nearly £1000 last academic year by designing and carrying out community projects, allowing the students to gain a perspective over their contributions and impact in a wider community. Sammy is an amazing colleague, mentoring fledgling teachers and will always be a team player no matter how busy she is herself. I am proud to be her colleague and thankful everyday that she is in our team.

My child was struggling on a daily basis and Miss Eddy has shown so much compassion and kindness throughout, always offering help and support. Following a recent diagnosis Miss Eddy has taken the time to email gluten free alternatives, recipe books, coeliac websites and places to eat. She double checks any food given to my child outside of home to make sure it doesn't contain gluten and has always shown support and always asked if we need anything, how she can help, always going the extra mile to make my child feel at ease. Miss Eddy has really helped us get through a difficult few months and we appreciate her so much and would like to show our thanks through this nomination.

Because my child was so shy and quiet, they didn't speak in class and didn't want to participate in activities like sports day or dancing as they would get embarrassed. Today my child sang on their own in the school nativity in front of parents and peers…because they have an amazing teacher. Ms Martinez has so much time and patience for the children she teaches and she is loved by them.

Mrs Mowle deserves this award not just because she helped my child grow and achieve everything year 1, but she has continually be involved in my child's teaching team. She is a credit to Cottage Grove and I couldn't think of anyone who I believe is more deserving.

Leanne is the most heart-filled teacher I have ever come across. She taught both my children in year 1 and they are now in year 3 and 4 and she still supports them as if they were still in her class. Leanne treats every child as if they are her own. She is always going above and beyond for every single pupil in every single year, she makes school more enjoyable for my little children. She makes it feel like a safe, comforting and loving environment. I have never come across such a warm, welcoming, loving teacher! If any pupil is ever having any troubles or worries Leanne is the first person they go to. She is more than just a teaching assistant, she is a child’s home and safe place from their home.

Miss Brown is my child’s reception teacher and I am so glad she is! I’ve never seen a teacher so patient and supportive, my child is thriving in her class and we couldn’t be more grateful. Miss Brown is more than happy to help with advice for learning at home and is an all round kind and genuine teacher; exactly what a good teacher should be!

My child was nervous starting their first year at school but Miss Brown has been a constant support for them and all the children in her class. She cares about all the children and nothing is ever too much trouble. She made the first year for my child the best start to their school journey anyone could ask for to which I am forever grateful. All the mums also think the same as well as her colleagues, I feel she deserves all the awards. Everyone describes her like Miss Honey from Matilda.

My child has special needs and their school is not a specialist school, yet Mr Robson has gone above and beyond to help. He’s the best teacher I’ve come across in 18 years of sending my children to school, one of a kind happy always helping always puts the children first he’s just amazing.

Mrs Thomas has been very supportive towards my child, emotionally and educationally providing my child with extra learning support. She is a great teacher.

She goes above and beyond to welcome children to school, sorts out disagreements with humour and empathy, gives a kind hug when needed, makes them feel valued and safe. What a credit to the school and impact she has had over her years there.

I am thrilled to nominate Mrs Mulligan for her exceptional work as a teaching assistant at Court Lane Junior School. For the past two years, she has tirelessly supported my child who has a health condition, providing both practical care and emotional encouragement. Mrs Mulligan has gone above and beyond to ensure my child's safety and inclusion. She closely monitors blood sugar levels, responds promptly to concerns, and works with medical staff and parents to create a safe environment. Her understanding of the emotional challenges my child faces has helped build their confidence, allowing them to thrive academically and socially. Mrs Mulligan’s dedication extends to advocating for my child's needs during trips and events, ensuring their condition never limits their participation. Her compassion, professionalism, and unwavering support have profoundly impacted my child's life. She is a true role model, and her extraordinary efforts deserve recognition.

She's is very good and very helpful with the children's studies and she's amazing and very interactive with the parents.

I am extremely thankful to Miss Nolan and her continuous support with my child. She takes time and effort to ensure my child gets the best out of their school day even when at times it can be tough. Her kindness and patience towards my child is amazing and as a parent I am extremely thankful. Nothing is too much in regards to checking in with me or keeping me updated with any concerns or feedback but also the positives! She has made resources to help support my child at school and overall has been a fantastic support and teacher! Thank you.

Miss Bundy always goes above and beyond. She is very kind and approachable. Miss Bundy puts the children first and is always willing to talk to parents with her concerns or praise. She loyally waits at her door to see her school children in and always greets them with a smile or a nice welcoming comment. Miss Bundy is loved by all of her class pupils and parents.

Miss Adams has been so kind, helpful and welcoming. Our child started school in September and naturally there was a lot of anxiety, not just from our child but us as parents too. Miss Adams has helped support our child, turning the tears into smiles by using her initiative quickly. She is a fantastic teacher and we have been lucky to have her for our child’s first experience with school. Thank you Miss Adams.

The best and kindest teacher in the world!

Miss Hawkins has taught both my children and she has always been supportive in our journey being a bilingual family. She is pushing my children's skills and developing their critical thinking. She is very kind and knows all the children very well. Thank you for making a difference in our children's lives!

Mr Lloyd is an excellent teacher. He is kind and compassionate whilst having a strong focus on the curriculum. Mr Lloyd is loved by his pupils! Mr Lloyd ensured my child got the additional support they needed in school, which I feel has has given them an excellent foundation to succeed. Thank you Mr Lloyd!

My SEN child managed to go back to mainstream school with the full time support from Suzy in year 1. She went above and beyond throughout every single day, including her lunchtimes, every year through year 1 to the very end of year 6. She knew what they wanted or needed and when as though they were her own and would always keep me updated. She helped them learn and grow in such a very special way, always with a smile on her face no matter the situation and supported us as parents, fantastically. If we didn't have Suzy, I don't think they would have managed to stay in mainstream school and continue to do so after transitioning to secondary. We appreciate everything she has done to help us as a family and could go on with a list of how we believe that this award should be awarded to her over and over but for now, a massive thank you and a nomination for being the best you!

Miss Dean has been incredible and my child has settled and flourished under her care. Their reading and maths have come on leaps and bounds. They adore her and are now an avid reader and can earn Fox points and be a Rocket Reader. She has encouraged and motivated them. She’s simply incredible.

Helen dedicates her whole week every single week to ensuring her students get the best possible school experience. She organises plays, sing alongs, games and always makes sure her classroom is decorated in a way that makes her students smile. With the unexpected exit of her year lead she stepped up to ensure the team ran smoothly and that everyone was supported and felt valued. She is truly an asset to all.

Goes above and beyond for her students, bringing in new books to read, and creates a beautiful, inclusive, and pupil lead environment where children can flourish and grow. The difference Mrs Jenner has made to my child’s schooling experience is indescribable. Mrs Jenner is an incredible teacher, and a real credit to the school.

Mrs Lewis has been my child's teacher for the last two years. In that time she has become a safe and supportive adult for a child who struggles a lot in school. She always ensures that they are able to join in as many in classroom lessons with work tailored to their abilities, and is so encouraging of even the little things that they do that are in fact big things for them.

Rachel Smedley is a wonderful pastoral lead and if it wasn’t for her, my child would not be where they are today. My child has autism and has challenges on a daily basis that many people don’t understand as they mask a lot of their behaviours. Mrs Smedley spent a lot of time with my child and her patience and kindness allowed them to open up to her and to become their ‘safe person’. She has gone above and beyond with giving my child an extensive transition period to senior school, including visiting the school with my child and taking photos and giving them lots of reassurance and listening to their worries. My child is now thriving in year 7 in their secondary school and a lot of this is down to the amazing help and support they received throughout their time with Mrs Smedley by their side. They miss her very much.

Mr Wells has been fantastic to support my child who has additional needs. He’s always happy and cheerful, my child is always talking about him and said they wish he could be their teacher forever.

Miss Callard is my child’s 1-2-1 in school and the support she has given them is phenomenal! Their confidence has grown so much since working with her. She’s patient, kind and loving! A real superstar who enjoys her job but also loves the children. The relationship she has built with my child is fantastic! Can’t thank her enough for the support she has given my child!

Ms Geall deserves the recognition for the support and care she showed to my grandchild when they attended Langstone. She goes above and beyond in her work and made such a difference to my child who has a lot of varying special needs. Just an absolute gem.

Fran deserves some recognition as she is one of the most hardworking members of our school staff (although she doesn't see it.) She is a vital and the most caring cog that keeps our school spinning. No one leads a singing assembly like our wonderful deputy either! Only she has the magic to chew gum that's been in her pocket for a week like that haha! It's a magic that cannot be explained as her kindness oozes from her every being when she is around. She has a passion to help others including children, parents, the wider community and the staff. Our families and staff think you are wonderful and I think you should know it and hope you get recognised for it.

Donna Davies is my child’s 121 (communicator). She has worked with my child for nearly two years and we could not be more grateful for the support she provides. My child is deaf and although can cope very well, they need extra support throughout the day to aid their communication and understanding. Donna provides this for them and ensures that they has equal access to learning as their peers do. On top of this Donna has taught the whole school and their class signs. This really makes my child feel included and it is so lovely to see their friends signing away to them. Without Donna I’m sure the school day would not be as enjoyable for them.

Beth is an outstanding member of staff. She works so hard to think of exciting and different ways to teach our young students, is always there for staff throughout the school and gets it all done with a smile on her face. Every school needs a Beth! Since working with her I've had such a personal positive outlook on life and I'm very grateful for her.

Priv has been a good support for the students in her school, as an immigrant herself she is able to identify with the students as well as provide support. Outside of this, Priv ensures that her teaching is inclusive and diverse to ensure that students have a worldview that is varied. Priv has gone above and beyond in her school to make contact with various organisations such as writing to Anthony Walker foundation when the students were learning about Anthony Walker, writing to the local MP during PSHE lessons etc. She inspires confidence and her sense of humour makes her relatable with all her students.

Evelyn is not only an outstanding Spanish teacher, she also has managed to overturn the school's careers programme with countless guest speakers, trips, whole-school enrichment days, college interviews and now is introducing work experience for year 10s for the first time.

I have observed this teaching assistant over the years and she is very loving towards the children, is always ready with an approachable smile and supports phonics very well. I can't praise her enough.

Liz always goes above and beyond supporting all year groups through the years she has been in our school. During break times she is an unfaultable first aider. The TA is always ready to assist her teaching staff and she never lets anything stop her from doing her amazing job.

I asked many children that attended the medical room who their favourite teacher in the school is. Many children said Miss Taylor. They said she goes above and beyond and is very kind.

I asked many children that attended the medical room who their favourite teacher in the school is. Many children said Mr Sharkey. They said he goes above and beyond and is very kind he understands the needs of the children that struggle and helps.

Mrs Macfarlane goes above and beyond to support the children that attend Kingfisher before and after school club. As a parent that works full time (in a school) I could not do everything I do without the support that Kingfisher club offers my child. They support them emotionally, help them get ready for extra curricular activities, school discos and so much more so they don't miss out on anything they want to do. This eases so many of my worries when it comes to my child. All of the children get a card and small gift on their birthdays and at Christmas and they are just so kind and thoughtful and deserve to be recognised for their dedication to the children they care for.

Miss McCullagh went above and beyond when my child started school. She is so caring and kind. Miss McCullugh is always putting the children at the center of what she does. She is also super supportive to the parents too.

Danielle is in her first year of being an ECT. She is amazing at her job, works so hard for her class and each child individually.

Sophie went above and beyond for my child in getting a neurodiversity (ND) profile set up for them to try get them assessed before they started senior school, and in the mean time turned my child's relationship with school around. Going from an extremely anxious child not wanting to attend and tears most mornings to walking in proud, brave and looking forward to their day. Sophie made their learning environment a place they felt safe and a place they were able to be themselves. We are now awaiting a SEND diagnosis after her pushing everything to get my child seen by the panel before they leave this school and we will be forever grateful for her open mind, reassurance and persisitance in how all children are different and shouldn't be a case of tick boxing. We are forever grateful as not only has my child's case gone to panel but they have agreed they should be put forward for assessment and hopefully will have things put in place for senior school so they don't get lost in the system as a teenager.

She goes above and beyond for the kids to make sure they are happy and safe. Meets all needs to allow them to thrive to the best of their abilities. She’s the most heart warming teacher and I’m so lucky my child has her.

She stepped in and took over when the teacher went long term sick, handled a particularly challenging class sometimes and made a huge difference to the complete class. She is a wonderful, compassionate teacher who deserves all the praise.

She is an incredible support for my child with autism and ADHD, she is always happy and truly cares about every child deeply.

Because he has been very kind to me and my classmates, he deserves it, he helps me with my work, and makes everyone laugh! He supports us when we need help.

I am recommending Mrs Powell for her amazing support to our family, I have three ASD children in different year groups at the school and Mrs Powell goes above and beyond to accommodate their needs and worries to support them with day to day activities. She is not only a teacher but like a friendly face every single morning. Our family have faced financial issues and Mrs Powell has gone out of her way to make sure we can access everything we need to support us as a family. She's not only a teacher but genuine people person and a human being worthy of this award.

A hidden gem. Supportive beyond measure, supporting my complex child in ways no other can. He has changed children's view on education. He spends time engaging, being fun, teaching the kids life lessons through his teaching. 150 words is not enough! He gives up time to run clubs or have talks with children that need it. He supports parents and always gives them the time of day.

Mr G is an inspiring and enthusiastic teacher who truly connects with his students. Known as the “coolest teacher,” he brings unmatched energy and passion to his role, whether running his rock school after-school club, leading the choir, or supporting children in their interests. Like a real-life Jack Black, Mr G’s dedication goes far beyond the classroom. He genuinely cares about what his students do outside of school, recognising the importance of extracurricular activities alongside the main curriculum. His ability to encourage, inspire, and acknowledge every child’s unique talents makes him a standout teacher who leaves a lasting impact on everyone he works with.

Rosie really cares for not only the children in her class but also staff and parents. She's one of the most supportive and caring teachers that I know.

Rosie is a dedicated teacher to all the children she teaches - she puts in her own time and money to make the learning experience for the children a better one. She starts work early and finishes late, she works throughout her weekends to ensure a better learning experience. Her passion she has shown for the children and school is outstanding. Above all she loves the children she teaches and treats them all as individuals and she loves her job. Well done Rosie, it is a breath of fresh seeing you teach and knowing you love what you do.

My child started in Mrs Butler’s reception class a shy, unconfident, emotional shell of a child, due to previous difficulties. By the end of the year, the turnaround in my child was phenomenal and she is now an exceedingly outgoing, confident, full of life child. And I strongly believe Mrs Butler’s input helped contribute to this and for that I’ll be forever grateful.

Mrs Swift has gone above and beyond to help my child feel happy and confident whilst wearing their hearing aids. They were shy and worried about school before then, as they couldn’t hear anything in class, and it really affected their confidence. Mrs Swift made them feel heard and made sure that they were involved and felt like a part of the class before their hearing aids and once they had them, made a fuss of how great the hearing aids are - when they felt embarrassed to wear them. She is no longer my child's teacher, but my child still goes to her for help with putting them in and changing batteries etc. and I feel that she made a real impact on how my child adapted to wearing them and feeling confident with their new aids. She is always approachable and friendly and makes my child's schooling experience a much more positive and happy place to be. I think she is a great role model to kids and makes them feel looked after and included in the school.

Jack is a dedicated educator who places children at the heart of everything he does. Committed to providing the best experiences, opportunities, and education for children in Portsmouth, Jack goes above and beyond to make a lasting impact. His genuine care for his teaching team, children, and families shines through in his daily actions, fostering an environment where everyone feels supported and valued. Jack’s passion for education and his unwavering focus on the wellbeing and development of the children make him an exceptional person.

She goes above and beyond to meet every child's needs. She sees every SEN child as an individual and genuinely cares about them all.

Chloe is truly a phenomenal teacher, she focuses mainly on one to ones and finds the best way to support SEN children finding their passions and helping them to communicate. For example, she uses music to support my child who responds to music. She helped my child go from saying one word to 17 in a term, she's a smiling ray of light who my child has connected to in a way I worried they never would with anyone outside of family. She truly cares about the SEN children and their families to find ways to help support them both at home and in nursery. I feel truly blessed to have her as my child's teacher and I know anyone whose child is blessed to be taught by her would say the same.

Cathy fights for each child to receive the education they deserve and is a strong support network for parents.

To be a good SENCo you need to be passionate about your job! And Cathy goes above and beyond to serve the children and the families of the Parade Preschool! Cathy continues to research SEND to ensure that she always knows the latest information that can ensure that she is always giving her children the best care. She helps the families of her children even after the children have left the setting. Her motto being “always a parade family.”

Mr Copper has not just turned around the English subject for my child who has previously always struggled with English but is now thriving, he also gives additional time to leading the Duke of Edinburgh scheme within Priory. That has built my child's confidence and skills. His dedication as a teacher is exceptional.

They are always supportive and help everyone complete DofE without unneeded stress.

As a new mum to school life Mrs Tobin immediately made me and my husband feel at ease. Nothing was ever too much trouble she went above and beyond daily. I was so worried about school life as my child was delayed but Mrs Tobin quickly put things in place and extra provision within the first term of school which started with speech and language therapy. My child has gone on to get an EHCP which Mrs Tobin started. Now in year 2 Mrs Tobin is still a household name and my child likes to say hello to her every Friday at her reception door. She truly is a special teacher and we compare her to Miss Honey from Matilda.

She was the back bone for our year 4 children while they went through lots of substitute teachers, she made sure our children were ready for year 5. She cared nurtured and loved our children and kept their behaviour on track. She’s one in a million.

Mr Dennett has singlehandedly helped make a mainstream school as comfortable as possible for my SEN child, and I am sure many others. He has put programes in place and has secured funding for a well needed sensory room. He has supported us through some really tough times. My child is now in year 11 and will be going to college next year.

Holly has gone above and beyond in supporting my child as we explore their emotional and educational needs at school. My child has experienced a few behavioural difficulties and Holly has helped support us with ND profiling and more.

Mrs Frost goes above and beyond to help the children in her class, especially the children with needs and they form a very special bond.

She always puts the children first and supports them in every way she can. My child has come so far thanks to Miss Gibbs.

She is a teacher that does her job with passion, very caring with children with social needs.

When we joined the school Mrs Killick was welcoming and encouraging and has been amazing to my children. I was so nervous moving them and she truly cares. She deserves an award for all she does for the children. She’s changed mine and helped them grow and has massively supported our family. I truly believe she deserves this. Everything she does isn’t just because it’s her job but because she cares and wants to do it.

Clare serves as a dedicated 1:1 support, working closely with individual children to provide personalised guidance, care, and encouragement. Her role requires a unique combination of empathy, adaptability, and expertise to meet the diverse needs of the children she works with. Clare’s dedication, skills, and compassion make a tangible difference in the lives of the children she works with. Her work is a testament to her unwavering commitment to helping every child reach their full potential. Clare’s patience and empathetic nature make her an invaluable presence in her role. She is more than just a staff member—she is a mentor, advocate, and trusted guide for the students she supports.Thank you from everyone, Clare.

Paula goes above and beyond with helping a specific child. She regularly comes in early to assist. She has supported not only the child but the carers to help regulate the child offering support not only during school hours but after school hours too. Truly an amazing person who we could not do this without.

Sam goes above and beyond in her role. She has assisted not only the children but the carers to the children. She is always happy to help within school hours and out of hours. Nothing is ever to much trouble for her. She is the mother to the children in her care and will always make time to help those in need.

Joanne has gone above and beyond for her class, she is a hardworking person who never gives up. She is always smiling and helps children when they are stuck.

She goes above and beyond, she's hard working, she has never given up even through tough times.

She never gives up, she always gives it 100% and helps everyone with anything. She is a nice and sweet lady.

Danny took my child under his wing and in the past 14 months the transformation has been incredible. Thanks to Danny, my child has found a love of music especially the guitar and actually is sad to leave at the end of term which for a child who used to hide in the cupboard to avoid school is absolutely monumental. Thank you Danny.

Mahbuba consistently goes over over and above for both the school and its students. As well as teaching PD, Miss Rahmen organizes all the school reward trips as well as the college taster days. She consistently supports the school's students with college applications and also helps them with their CVs to make sure they are ready for college or work.

Since taking over as head of science, Sarah has worked tirelessly to improve GCSE grades for our students. In addition to this she makes the time to support all members of her team and is always available to listen and where necessary find a solution. She also supports and mentors a number of students and has changed their school experience for the better. Sarah truly is a superwoman who always puts others before herself.

Miss Carter is a dedicated mentor. Every day she delivers interventions for students to improve their numeracy and literacy skills. The impact she has on the students goes above and beyond expectation, allowing them to access the curriculum and catch up with their peers. Always positive, Miss Carter is loved by our students and staff.

Showing outstanding good practice to our child when they were in need. Tammy would go above and beyond and can appreciate each individual pupil's successes with coming into school. The understanding shown by Tammy has restored my faith in education settings. We know that a child cannot focus if there is a need or problem, Tammy has helped a school refuser into a school attender who is excelling. We will be forever grateful to Tammy.

Is so approachable, kind, caring. Will keep an eye on children even if not in her class. Shannon is such a breath of fresh air and will go above and beyond for all pupils and is always there to ensure each child has someone to play with, they have their coats zipped up and all the extra little things that really make a difference. Neither of my children have her in their class but both think she is amazing!

Sarah Newton is an outstanding teacher. She inspires her students and parents alike. She is greatly loved by the whole school community. Sarah has only been teaching for a few years and has shown herself to be such an excellent practitioner that she has already progressed to EYFS lead. Her students all excel under her care and her delivery of the EYFS curriculum, especially phonics, has ensured that all students succeed. Sarah is now also overseeing a brand new preschool, which is already spoken highly of by parents and the community.

Miss Harman is a wonderful teacher. She has made my child feel so settled and happy to come into school this year which has been a challenge in previous years. My child recently said they didn’t want to break up for Christmas because they love learning so much, all thanks to Miss Harman.

Miss Gibson is kind, patient, gives moral support and guidance to my kids. She is a star! Going above and beyond this time with my youngest child. I really appreciate all of her hard work to engage my child. I can’t imagine a better first teacher to my child.

Above beyond every single day! With the biggest smile she is a credit to Wimborne.

I am excited to nominate Miss Fry for the people’s choice award due to her infectious energy and enthusiasm that truly inspires our children. During multiple events we have attended, Miss Fry creates an engaging and dynamic learning environment that captivates every student. Her passion for teaching is evident, and it sparks curiosity and a love for learning among the kids.