We're continuing our series of blog posts introducing the winners from this year's Teach Portsmouth Awards which celebrated the amazing teachers, leaders and support staff in Portsmouth's schools and colleges.

This week we meet Rebekah Egerton, a teaching assistant at Beacon View Primary Academy, to learn more about winning the people's choice award and supporting children to thrive in the classroom.

Thank you for speaking to us, Rebekah. Please can you tell us a little about your role?

I am a class based teaching assistant, supporting a range of children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). I encourage the children to challenge themselves in their school work and teach them daily life skills. I deliver a range of interventions to support the child's individual needs.

Congratulations on winning the people's choice award at the Teach Portsmouth Awards 2022. How did you feel when you found out you had been nominated?

I felt overwhelmed and extremely thankful when I received the email to say I had been nominated.

What did it mean to you to win the award and where do you keep your trophy?

I was in complete shock and disbelief when I won the award. I am just doing my job and ensuring the children have a safe, secure learning environment where they can access their work and thrive through learning. I kept my trophy in my classroom, as the class were very proud. Now it is at home on the shelf.

How important are events like the Teach Portsmouth Awards in recognising achievements in education?

I think these events are important to everyone. Even being nominated is a huge achievement and an amazing feeling. It is a chance for people in the education sector to be recognised and praised for the support they give daily.

Can you tell us a little bit about why you chose a role supporting pupils in Portsmouth?

From a young age, this was my dream job. When I was at school, I had such strong role models who changed my outlook on life and supported me even when I struggled. I want to make an impact on another child's life as they did to me. I also don't believe there is such thing as a 'challenging child'. Every child needs a supportive, trusted adult who can support them with the challenges they face, how to react and how to understand their emotions – I believe I can help children with this.

What would you say to anyone who is thinking about supporting pupils in Portsmouth?

I would advise them to do it. Even after a challenging day (which is very rare), you still walk away with a feeling of achievement and accomplishment. No matter what, you would have supported and made one child feel safe and happy.

Inspired by Rebekah's story?

Visit our dedicated webpage to learn more about becoming a teaching assistant in Portsmouth.