A TEACHING assistant that plays a “vital” role at a school in Flintshire has scooped a prize at the Leader Education Awards 2024.

Jo Jackson- Wyatt of Ysgol Bryn Gwalia, Mold won the teaching assistant of the year award at the ceremony on March 14.

Judges said this is an award for a teaching assistant, who always gives exceptional service and make a real difference to their pupils learning through their work.

Jo has been described as “the most amazing human to walk this earth”.

In addition to being a TA, Jo also completes a host of other roles at the Flintshire school. The children at the school love Jo because of the amazing relationships she has formed over the years.

Jo goes “above and beyond” to make sure that not only the children around her get the best possible start in life but the families around her get the best possible support.

Ysgol Bryn Gwalia “would be lost” without Mrs Wyatt, who is vital in her various roles. She is the “glue that holds our school together”.

After receiving the award, Jo said: “I’m really proud, proud of what we do and the support we give.

“It’s so pleasing to see children coming to school and being happy when they easily couldn’t. It’s also amazing to see families and people be open with any issues they are having rather than keeping it to themselves.

“It’s all about having a good team, we’re always having a laugh and we’ve got the best families in our school, they’re just great.

“We share our issues when we’re doing and we celebrate when we’re up, that’s what makes our team so special.”

Also nominated for the award were Cerys Jackson, of Ysgol Y Waun, Chirk and Laura Armstrong from Maesteg Bryteg, Wrexham.

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