Posted: 23/06/16
Andy’s drive and passion recognised with prestigious award
A motor vehicle tutor at West Nottinghamshire College has scooped a prestigious accolade that celebrates inspirational teachers and unsung heroes.
Andy is presented with the special recognition award in the best secondary teacher category by Hayley Mason of award sponsor Specsavers. Photo: Andrew Roe.
Andy Gray received a special recognition award in the Chad newspaper’s Best in Schools Awards 2016 after guests, fellow winners, sponsors and dignitaries heard about his dedication to helping students achieve.
It saw him presented with a certificate and scroll at the glitzy awards, held on Tuesday (21 June) at Mansfield Town Football Club’s One Call Stadium to honour the very best students, teachers and support staff, and those who go the extra mile to make school or college life special for others.
More than 120 nominations were cast in this year’s event, revealing deserving winners in 13 categories ranging from best teaching assistant, headteacher, caretaker and volunteer, to awards for educational progress, healthy eating, recycling, technology and sport.
Andy, whose award came in the best secondary teacher category, was nominated by level 3 motor vehicle students Julie Barber and Kerry Simpson, who joined him at the event along with curriculum manager John Wilson – all keen to show their support.
In their nomination, Julie and Kerry wrote: "Andy really deserves this award because he goes above and beyond in his job role. When Andy is teaching, you can really see the passion he has for what he does and it makes you want to learn and want to be better – and he gives you more confidence in what you're doing.
“He will go really in-depth so you can understand the subject easier, whether it's in class or during break, lunch and even half-term when coming in for extra study.
“If you need extra help he will really go out of his way for you and teaches you extra things outside of the curriculum. I honestly don't know how he fits it all in.”
Modest Andy said: “It was quite a surprise to find out I’d been nominated for this award. To be rewarded in such a way, at the end of the academic year, was the icing on the cake.
“I was presented with a scroll after some really nice positive comments which the students had put forward were read out during the presentation.
“I’m passionate about passing on my knowledge to learners and have spent additional time this year on extracurricular activities with those who are particularly interested in the subject.
“It’s nice to know my efforts have been noticed and that my learners have gained a positive experience whilst attending college.”
Curriculum manager John Wilson said: “This is an excellent achievement and is testament to the hard work and passion that Andy puts into everything he does.”
Jon Ball, Chad head of content, said: “The Best in School Awards were created to allow our community to see the shining stars of our education establishments, and to hear of the excellent work they do with our young people.
“They are a credit to their colleagues and their students.”
