National Teaching Assistants' Day 2026: Meet Our Winners

As we celebrate National Teaching Assistants' Day 2026, we're delighted to recognise the incredible individuals who have been selected as our Teaching Assistant of the Year winners.

This year, we were blown away by the response to our awards. We received a record-breaking number of nominations, with schools, colleagues, parents and pupils taking the time to recognise the hard work, compassion and dedication of teaching assistants across the UK.

Reading through the nominations was both inspiring and moving. Every story highlighted the vital role teaching assistants play in helping children and young people to thrive, whether that's supporting learning, championing inclusion, nurturing wellbeing or helping pupils overcome barriers to success.

After careful consideration, we're proud to introduce our 2026 winners.

Our Teaching Assistant of the Year 2026 is George Thomas, of Islwyn High School

Despite being relatively new to the profession, George has already made an outstanding impact. His nomination highlighted his exceptional support for a learner with complex needs, helping them build confidence, independence and excitement about their future. Combined with his commitment to professional development and his person-centred approach, George stood out as a worthy recipient of this year's overall award.

Our Higher Level Teaching Assistant of the Year 2026 is Destiny Ogolo, of Clarion School. 

Destiny was recognised for the extraordinary support she provides to pupils and families. From helping a pupil successfully return to school after a prolonged absence to supporting families through important educational transitions, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure pupils feel supported and able to achieve their potential. Her dedication, emotional intelligence and unwavering advocacy make her a truly deserving HLTA winner. 

We're also pleased to recognise the important role professional development pathways, including HLTA apprenticeship programmes delivered by partners such as Best Practice Network, play in supporting talented support staff to progress in their careers.

Our Secondary Teaching Assistant of the Year 2026 is Jessica Jones, of Islwyn High School. 

Jessica's nomination celebrated the incredible difference she makes to pupil wellbeing every day. Through her work creating a safe and supportive wellbeing space, she helps young people feel heard, valued and understood. Her warmth, empathy and commitment to emotional wellbeing made her a standout nominee.

Our Primary Teaching Assistant of the Year 2026 is Jane Alker, of Essa Primary.

After more than 40 years working in education, Jane's nomination recognised a career dedicated to supporting and inspiring generations of children. Her kindness, creativity and unwavering commitment have left a lasting impact on countless pupils, making this recognition especially fitting as she prepares for a well-deserved retirement.

Thank You

To everyone who submitted a nomination, thank you for helping us celebrate the remarkable people who make such a difference in schools every day.

And to every teaching assistant, HLTA, learning support assistant and SEND specialist recognised through this year's awards, thank you for the work you do to support children and young people across the UK.

Congratulations once again to George Thomas, Destiny Ogolo, Jessica Jones and Jane Alker.

If you would still like to show your appreciation for a Teaching Assistant, you can leave a thank you message on our website.