Nikki Wright, a teaching assistant at Packmoor Ormiston Academy has won the Silver Award for Teaching Assistant of the Year in the prestigious Pearson National Teaching Awards.
The award recognises Nikki’s exceptional work supporting pupils with complex needs in the school’s Specialist Internal Provision (SIP), where she has had a transformational impact on children, families and the wider school community. Her achievement also places her in contention for a Gold Award, which will be announced later this year.
Nikki is widely regarded by colleagues, parents and pupils as a dedicated and compassionate professional who brings out the best in every child. She played a central role in establishing the SIP, creating a space where pupils with a range of needs can thrive within a mainstream setting.
In her role, Nikki has championed personalised, multi-sensory learning, introduced non-verbal assessment strategies and implemented inclusive communication tools such as Makaton, ensuring all pupils feel supported and seen.
Her contribution extends far beyond the classroom. From finding creative solutions to help pupils access school trips, to maintaining trusted relationships with families, Nikki ensures that every child and parent feels included. Her dedication has earned praise from across the school community. Parents describe her as “nurturing” and “supportive”, while colleagues call her “selfless, resilient and remarkable”, with one noting, “Nikki doesn’t just teach – she transforms lives”.
As part of the award, Nikki has been invited to attend a celebration event in London later this year alongside other Pearson award winners.
Peter Moore, Principal at Packmoor Ormiston Academy, said: “Nikki is an inspiration to others. She works tirelessly to support our children, especially our most vulnerable pupils, and she does so with warmth, dedication and creativity. She adapts learning, leads with kindness and is truly at the heart of our inclusive approach. We are incredibly proud that her contribution has been recognised on a national stage. Her work embodies the values of compassion, inclusion and excellence that the school strives to nurture every day.”
Click here for the list of Pearson Silver Award winners.