Inspirational Dewsbury teacher honoured in UK celebration of teaching

Thornhill Junior and Infant School teacher Peter Simons won a silver award in The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School.

Michael Rowland, head teacher at Thornhill Junior and Infant School said Mr Simons is central to the school’s music provision, in which every child learns to play ten different musical instruments.

“Our hearts are brimming with pride that Mr Simons (Our Music teacher) has been recognised with this prestigious award,” said Mr Rowland.

“Music is the life blood of our school and especially during these very challenging times it has really helped to bring us all together.”

Mr Simons is now in the running for one of just 14 Gold Awards later in the year, in a programme which will be broadcast on the BBC.

The Pearson National Teaching Awards is an annual celebration of exceptional teachers, founded in 1998 by Lord Puttnam to recognise the life-changing impact an inspirational teacher can have on the lives of the young people.

This year marks its 22nd year of celebrating, award-winning teachers, teaching assistants, headteachers and lecturers across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Rod Bristow, President of Pearson UK, said: “Congratulations to all of our Silver Award winners for their commitment, dedication and passion for their work. Despite the incredible challenges they have faced over the past few months, school staff have risen to the occasion time and again.

“It is so important to recognise and celebrate teachers, teaching assistants and lecturers for the impact they have on our young people every year, and that is why Pearson is delighted to support these Awards.”