Exmouth teachers win national awards

Silver could turn to gold later

Two Exmouth teachers are in line for a national award in a ceremony that will be televised nationally later this year.

Matt Jenkins and Jo Fison from the Deaf Academy in the town already have silvers in Pearson's Lockdown Hero Award for learner and community support 

Pearson, a global company that provides exams and learning materials, and runs the National Teaching Awards. Devon author Sir Michael Morpurgo, the former children’s laureate and creator of War Horse is its president. He said: “Thank a Teacher Day gives us all a chance -  children, families, all of us - to pay tribute to those wonderful educators who change more lives than they will ever know."

Of the Exmouth silver award winners,  Matt Jenkins ensured deaf learners had equal access to information and learning around covid, developing the ‘Ask a Deaf Teacher’ YouTube channel. Jo Fison ensured that online platforms were sign language friendly, able to stream sign language efficiently and clearly, and considered well-being at the heart of all delivery. 

The silver award winners are being honoured as part of celebrations for ‘Thank a Teacher Day’, following data showing how lockdowns have significantly changed how families view teachers. The pair could now win one of just 15 gold awards.

Deaf Academy principal Sylvan Dewing said: “Lockdown has been a very difficult time across the country, in particular for young people with additional needs and their families. A fantastic achievement for Jo and Matt and wonderful recognition for everyone who worked here during that difficult time. They are all heroes!”

Matt Jenkins (above) and Jo Fison from the Deaf Academy