Niton Primary School’s Stephanie Dunford was presented with the ‘Going the extra mile’ award at the Isle of Wight Council’s Education Awards recently.
When Stephanie pulls on her wellie boots, pupils know it can only mean one thing — Forest School time! As a qualified Forest School teacher, she transformed a corner of the school grounds into a wildlife haven where the children love getting muddy and experiencing the great outdoors by building dens and hunting for creepy crawlies.
Her “energy and determination” to make a difference were recognised at the awards ceremony at Quay Arts, Newport.
Her story was just one of the highlights of an inspiring night which celebrated the fantastic achievements of Island teachers, support staff and governors.
After many years spent supporting staff and students at Medina House, Stephanie decided to train to teach and qualified as ‘outstanding’ on her Schools Direct course. As well as spearheading a new Forest School, she also co-ordinated the school’s first-ever Global Rock entry, leading them to fourth place on the Island overall and a clutch of other accolades.
Described by her colleagues as a “very talented, utterly committed and all-round superstar”, Stephanie said:
“I felt very proud to be nominated and honoured to receive the award.
“After being involved in Global Rock at my previous school, I decided I would like to get Niton involved. I had an amazing response and more than 60 children got involved and many of the parents too. So many children who wouldn’t normally go on stage participated. They all had the most amazing experience and have constantly asked me when we start rehearsals for next year.
Article continues below this advertisement “When I became a Forest School leader, I wanted to give children the opportunity to learn and develop their independence, resilience and self-esteem in a different environment. When the children see me in my waterproof trousers, they always ask when is it their turn for Forest School again?”
“I take great pleasure in all of the extra things I do. I never find it a chore. It makes it all worthwhile when I see the reactions from the children.”
The dedication and commitment of popular Island headteacher Richard May saw him secure the award for ‘Sustained contribution to educational success’.
Richard, who has been headteacher at Greenmount Primary School, Ryde, for 20 years, was described by his colleagues as “the heart, the life and the glue of the school”. His energy and infinite optimism were said to have inspired students and staff alike, while his legacy would continue for many future generations to come.
Dr Bethany Foreman, head of science at Christ the King College, Newport, received the ‘Educational excellence award’ in recognition of a 40% rise in students achieving A*/A grades in GCSE science last year, while Lindsay Davies was presented with the ‘Strong foundations award’ for “helping to bring the travel and tourism curriculum to life” at the Isle of Wight College, Newport.
All nominees were put forward by headteachers and governors, with awards presented across eight categories.
Councillor Paul Brading, Cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills, was joined by county education manager, Eric Halton, and High Sheriff, Geoff Underwood, in presenting the awards in the Anthony Minghella Theatre at Quay Arts.
Cllr Brading said:
“The calibre of nominations was extremely high again this year.
“The awards have been shaped by headteachers to highlight the important ways in which our hard-working teachers, support staff and others make a real difference to children and families in our schools.”
Mr Halton said the awards highlighted the Isle of Wight as a fantastic place for people not only to start but to develop their teaching careers. He added:
“There is no doubt the Island is on a journey. There have been the occasional rocky moments, but without any doubt at all we are surging forward together as a community.”
The audience was also treated to performances by pianist Charis Nicholas, a Year 6 pupil at Greenmount Primary School, Ryde, and singer Anna Parkinson, from Ryde Academy.
Award Winners 2019
• Going the extra mile award — Stephanie Dunford (Niton Primary School)
• Impact beyond the classroom award — PE department, Bekky Mann and Ella Greenslade (St George’s School)
• Inspiring educational excellence award — Dr Bethany Foreman (Christ the King College)
• Leading light award — Pat Suttmann (Isle of Wight College)
• Strong foundations award — Lindsay Davies (Isle of Wight College)
• Sustained contribution to educational success award — Richard May (Greenmount Primary School)
• Unleashing potential award — Katy Edmunds (Isle of Wight College)
• Unsung hero award — The ‘A Team’ – Tim Addison, Sally Jones, Jade Kennett, Reuben Lovell, Rev Ian Lovell, Kate Whiting and Marie Woodward (The Bay CE Primary School).
