AN emotional moment was shared by PTA staff at a Worcestershire primary school when it won a top award in memory of a teacher who died.
Far Forest Lea Memorial CE Primary Academy PTA, near Bewdley, scooped the Community Involvement Award and the Outstanding Achievement Award at last night's Worcestershire Education Awards 2024.
The school had dedicated its success to a long-serving teacher, Adele Howells, who died aged 44 after a battle with cancer.
After Adele's death, the community rallied together to fundraise for a Garden of Peace and Reflection for pupils in memory of their beloved teacher.
Alison Timmins, PTA chair, said: "She taught at the school for quite a long time, so family came through the school with quite a few children, or they had been taught by her themselves.
"Being a very small village, it is a very heavy community loss.
"Even those who did not personally know who she was got to hear about it and wanted to champion us on - it's amazing."
Adele had taught at the school for 16 years and Ms Timmins said she would have been so proud of the awards.
"This is actually quite something else and it is quite emotional," she said.
"Adele is still there very much in school and would be very proud.
"Her family will be absolutely blown away by it all."
The PTA had been nominated for the award by head of school, Mokshuda Begum, who said their “dedication to the betterment of the school community was truly unparalleled.”
Mrs Begum described how the mums had worked “tirelessly” to secure thousands of pounds in grants to support teaching and learning, funding new books for the library, playground improvements and working behind the scenes to provide vital support to the school and its pupils.
She said it was through their “hard work and determination” they were able to raise more than £7,000 to create the peace garden and memorial to Miss Howells.
Guests arrived at The Bank House in Bransford suited and booted to find out the winners of the annual Worcestershire Education Awards 2024.
The award ceremony was held last night (Thursday, April 18) and 13 awards were given to some of the education industry's most dedicated and hard-working people.
Stephanie Preece, regional editor for Newsquest in Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, said: “What an amazing night it has been, with so many incredible stories.
“Worcestershire is lucky to have so many dedicated, talented and caring teachers and staff in our schools, nurseries and colleges.
“Finally, I would like to give a big thank you to our sponsors who made tonight possible.”
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