A pre-school leader who goes “above and beyond” for children and their families has been nominated for a Worcestershire Education Award.

Sue Jennings of Abbey Park Pre-School in Pershore spent lockdown organising help for struggling families, visiting children on their doorsteps and more.

“It’s really nice to have our hard work and enthusiasm recognised,” she said. “We feel it’s really important to support not only the children but also their families, particularly during Covid.

“It’s been very difficult for some of our families during lockdown and we have gone the extra mile to support them, whether it’s putting them in touch with food banks, supporting children or parents with their education, or helping parents to tackle children’s behaviour.

“We visited families who needed it, obviously not going in but seeing children through the window, giving them activities to try out at home. We produced videos, sang songs and provided the necessary equipment so no children were discriminated against based on whether they could afford it or not.

“We didn’t have to do this but we did. I personally visited our vulnerable children to make sure they were safe. I felt that as a federation, we went over and above to make sure they were safe.”

Worcester News:

Sue was nominated by Vicky Grantham, a former teaching assistant at the school. She said: “Over the last couple of years they have really gone above and beyond what any normal school would do.

“There have been a couple of instances of families really struggling and Sue has taken time out of her own personal schedule to meet with people and even to walk children home from school.

“Sue and the rest of the pre-school team are the most supportive ladies I’ve ever met. They genuinely care for all of their children and they spend many unpaid hours doing things for others including organising Christmas presents for those children who might otherwise receive nothing at all.”

The Worcester News is running the Worcestershire Education Awards 2022 alongside the University of Worcester.

Anyone can make a nomination - just head to our Worcestershire Education Awards page.

There are 12 categories in total and the deadline for entries is Friday 17 December.

If your business or organisation is interested in sponsoring an award, email dale.godliman@newsquest.co.uk