A classroom cornerstone whose quiet care has shaped generations is now in line for national recognition, as a long-serving teaching assistant earns a place among the country’s very best.
Ellacombe CofE Academy in Torquay has announced that Tracy Parpworth-Reynolds has been shortlisted for Teaching Assistant of the Year in the Pearson National Teaching Awards 2026.
The nomination recognises Tracy’s contribution to education over nearly 20 years at the school, where she has supported multiple generations of families and built lasting relationships with pupils, parents and colleagues.
As personal, social and emotional development and Thrive lead, Tracy works closely with pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs. Her approach is based on the belief that children cannot learn unless they feel safe and regulated.
She supports pupils to understand their emotions, develop strategies for self-regulation and rebuild confidence in themselves as learners. Her role also extends to supporting colleagues through training and coaching across the school.
Colleagues described her as “the anchor of the school, the calm in any storm”. One pupil said: “She just gets it. She knows when you’re finding things difficult even if you don’t know how to explain it. Every school in the whole wide world should have a Mrs PR.”
Alison Helm, headteacher at Ellacombe CofE Academy, said: “Tracy embodies everything this award stands for. Her compassion, expertise and relentless commitment to children have transformed lives over many years. We are incredibly proud to see her recognised at a national level.”
Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “Tracy represents the very best of our profession. Her unwavering commitment to children has had a profound and lasting impact not only at Ellacombe but across our wider trust. The difference she makes to children’s lives, families and colleagues is extraordinary.”
Tracy said: “I am truly honoured to have been shortlisted for the National Teaching Assistant of the Year Award. I am incredibly grateful to have been put forward, and I know there are so many dedicated teaching assistants, right across the country and here at Ellacombe, who deserve this recognition just as much.
“Every day, we work together with one shared goal, to make a positive difference to the lives and education of the children we support. I feel proud to be part of such a committed and passionate team.”
Winners of the Pearson National Teaching Awards will be announced on National Thank a Teacher Day in June. The awards were founded in 1998 by Lord Puttnam and celebrate excellence in education.
