IN THE second of our articles in the lead up to the Basingstoke Gazette Education Awards 2019 later on this year, we have caught up with another one of last year’s winners.

Sandra Paddon, from St John’s Church of England Primary School, won the inaugural Teaching Assistant/Support Staff Award.

Having served at the school for 26 years now, Sandra has played a variety of roles, ranging from dinner lady and cleaner, to governor and teaching assistant.

This is in addition to running an after-school club and the school council.

Speaking to The Gazette, Sandra remembered the night that she got the award.

Sandra said: “It was a brilliant evening, and a real surprise to actually win the award.

“It definitely makes a difference, the fact that you are nominated either by those that you teach or their parents or another member of staff.

“After the event itself, people kept coming to talk to me about the event, they sent me cards and all sorts, and it makes me really appreciate everybody.”

Since winning the award last year, things have not slowed down for Sandra, who still works at the school.

The learning support assistant still helps out in many different ways, including being involved in a vast range of areas in school life and the facility’s team of teachers and staff.

Sandra added: “I’m very lucky to be in a school that has such a good team together, we work together to get everything prepared and sort out any problems that come up.

“The school really feels like a second home, and it is great to still be here.

“It is definitely a rewarding job in every aspect, the children are lovely, and that really helps.

“It is a full-on role, and once you are in, you’re in, and that is really a part of the job that I like.”

This year’s awards will be taking place at the Apollo Hotel on July 4, with nominations open until May 23.

Sandra said: “I would definitely encourage people to get involved.

“I didn’t know about it myself until getting the nomination last year, but had I known about it, I would have nominated others for other awards.

“It was lovely, and a really well put together evening.

“From my personal experience, it was great to receive the certificate, and while I am not good at accepting praise, this really does boost my confidence.

“It helps you to realise that you are doing a good job and it was a lovely experience.”

There are several different categories, including the Teaching Assistant/Support Staff Award, in this year’s awards scheme. To nominate, go to https://form.jotformeu.com/80294391678367.