A TEACHING assistant with a passion for special needs has been rewarded with a title that puts her at the top of her field.

Stokesley School’s Helen Day is this year’s North Yorkshire Teaching Assistant of the Year, awarded for her supportive work as a learning mentor.

Established by the North Yorkshire Secondary Improvement Board in 2017, the accolade celebrates and recognises outstanding and inspirational practice.

Helen began as a volunteer six years ago and is now an advanced teaching assistant. She was nominated for her invaluable work helping students in school.

“I swapped farming for education about six years ago and as a mum of four always loved helping children,” said Helen, of Great Broughton.

“I have always been interested in behaviour. I like to know what motivates people. Many children are written off as ‘naughty’ but I enjoy finding the triggers for their behaviour so we can sort out a strategy to help them."