This year, we resubmitted our application for the Best Practice with Teaching Assistants Award, and we are pleased to announce that we have been successful in retaining the award for another 3 years.
As part of the reassessment, the award verifier collected evidence from across the academy, including a presentation of key changes, survey results from teachers and support staff, written feedback, the academy’s induction processes, as well as the training plans and an audit of the skills and qualifications on offer from our teaching assistants.
As part of the review, our Teaching Assistants had the opportunity to speak to the verifier, and we are so proud of the positive messages which came through these interactions. There were references to the roles and staff development opportunities, which have led some of our teaching assistants to become teachers, or move into more specialist roles. The support staff team felt appreciated by leadership and that their voices were heard.
The best statement was “We’re proud to be a part of the school”.
It was found that the roles of our Teaching Assistants were clearly defined, and there is a wide range of specialist roles for them to undertake. The communication and teamwork were at a good level, and it was highlighted that staff will actively cover and support each other to ensure the best outcomes for the students. It was clear from the report that our individual approach to student learning and striving to support independence is strong, and our work across the academy is having a real impact on students.
“This continues to be a school where a highly motivated and proactive team of TAs are at the heart of the school and integrated into all aspects of its work on a daily basis. Their work and dedication continue to be recognised and valued by their colleagues, leaders and governors.”
We want to take this opportunity to thank all our staff team and Optimus Education for their support in helping us achieve this award.