Ten members of staff at Stanwix primary school will see all their hard work rewarded when they receive vocational education certificates next Monday (5 November).
Eight of the ten are either catering staff or midday supervisors will be receiving certificates for successfully achieving a vocational qualification for support work in schools (SWiS). Deputy Head Sue Whitlock and classroom teacher Barnaby Wheatly will also be receiving their L20 Mentoring award.
The eight SWiS students worked for six months to complete units in their given field and also around 'exploring and responding to the needs of pupils' and 'exploring values, policies, roles and responsibilities in schools'.
They did all this whilst carrying out their normal duties as well, as the the learning takes place in the school to minimise disruption to the school day.
Candidates are allocated an assessor who trains them and assesses them, and the course is free of charge to all learners.
Charles Searle is Senior Education Officer for Adult Learning at Cumbria County Council, which delivers the courses.
He said:
"One of the best things to come out of this 'in school' training is that it makes everyone aware of the valuable contribution that these staff make to the school, and makes the learners more aware of their importance in school.
"It shows that everyone who works in a school has a role to play in raising standards and giving children the best possible start in life. SWiS candidates can include catering staff, administrators, librarians, learning support assistants, site maintenance and technical staff.
"Not only does the qualification help people do their job more effectively, it also gives them a nationally recognised certificate."
Any school or person working in a school who would like to know more about the SWiS certificates can call Beverly Haigh in Adult Education at the county council on (01900) 325080.
The eight SWiS learners receiving their awards on Monday are: Linda Baty, Gill Ganley, Sue Graham, Karen Mylneck, Jane Rae, Angela Small. Audrey Stalker and Joanne Watters.
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The certificate presentations will be taking place at Stanwix primary school, 12 Mulcaster Crescent at 1pm.