Supporting Staff Member of the Year Sponsored by Kirkgate Shopping WINNER: Michelle Maltby, Marshfield Primary School Category

Michelle works as a higher-level teaching assistant at Marshfield Primary School and has worked her way up from a cleaner in school some four years ago.

Michelle works tirelessly to support children with their teaching and learning and is exceptional in being able to move children on.

Michelle has a great relationship with the children, and they have and show a great respect for her.

Michelle also has a really positive relationship with all staff members and is always the first to volunteer for any additional duties in school.

Michelle really has got the potential to go further, possibly to gain qualified teacher status in the future.

After being handed her award, Michelle said: “I’m shocked and over the moon. I’m still shaking. It makes everything I’ve done worthwhile.

“Everyone has been so supportive and have been behind me all the way.

“I’ve gone from a cleaner to a teaching assistant in just a few years. The fact that I was even nominated was enough.

“I love my job and for other people to see that too is great. I had to go the long way round to be a teacher and I was low in confidence when I started, but this shows it is possible to do it.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED Aidan Bolland, St Cuthbert and The First Martyrs’ Primary School – He has worked at the school for many years and is truly invaluable in the school community, especially to Friends of St Cuthbert and the First Martyrs where he helps fundraising events to be a success; Eddy Sykes, Horton Grange Primary School – Recognised for the hard work he does day in day out for the school, pupils, staff, parents, and the community.