A TEACHER who specialises in supporting children with hearing difficulties has been recognised at the Leader Education awards.

Rhiannon Loney from Borras Park CP, Wrexham, won primary school teacher of the year at the awards evening on March 14 at the Village Hotel, St David’s.

This award recognises a teacher who inspires and engages students to fulfil their potential and makes an exceptional contribution to the life of their school.

Rhiannon works and supports children in the deaf resource base at the school in Wrexham, using a mixture of British sign language, visual aids and spoken English.

After completing her Teacher of the Deaf qualification, Rhiannon began creating good solid relationships with the children, focusing on ensuring that they were supported to the best of her ability in mainstream and ensuring they have friendship groups outside of the resource provision.

She also has supported the school’s movement to develop the use of British Sign Language, introducing sign of the week to the junior classrooms.

Rhiannon has been described as “forward-thinking” and is “always looking for ways to help the children see a secure future with their deafness”.

After receiving the award, Rhiannon said: “It’s all a bit mind-blowing.

“I love working with deaf children, I’m from a family of deaf people so sign language is my first language.

“I’m amazed really, it’s very nice to be recognised for this award and it’s nice to be recognised by the families too. I absolutely love my job and it’s so pleasing working with deaf children.

“It’s all about the small steps as they often mean the most.

“I’m back off maternity leave next week so this is a perfect end to it!”

Also nominated for primary school teacher of the year were Elizabeth Jones from Ysgol Owen Jones, Northop and Mrs L McMullan of Ysgol Estyn, Hope.

Don't miss our souvenir supplement in this Thursday, March 28 Leader.