A primary school in Hartlepool held a celebration recently to acknowledge the fantastic work undertaken by support staff.

West View, which is one of ten primary schools under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust, held a special assembly and made presentations to staff as part of  ‘Stars in our Schools’ – an annual UK-wide celebration, co-ordinated by UNISON – to recognise the invaluable contribution by the likes of teaching assistants, catering and admin staff, cleaners, lunchtime supervisors and site staff.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra Academy Trust, said: “Every year we choose different primary schools to mark UNISON’s ‘Stars in our Schools’ initiative and this year we selected West View and Rosebrook in Stockton-on-Tees.

“Support staff make an invaluable contribution in all of our schools and events like this help to reinforce just how much they are appreciated.”

Speaking at West View Primary School’s special assembly, Headteacher Lauren Furness, said: “The work of our support staff is vital to ensure that our school runs smoothly every single day.

“We have people who clean the building, serve our school dinners, work in the office and support teachers. Today is about celebrating those people and acknowledging the great work that they do.”

Year 6 pupils read out poems to reflect how much they value support staff, whilst other pupils in assembly highlighted the importance of the various roles.

UNISON Northern regional head of local government Conor McArdle said: “UNISON is proud to be working with Ad Astra Academy Trust for UNISON’s annual Stars in our Schools celebration.

“The contribution school support staff make is essential to the success of every young person’s education.

“From cooks and cleaners to family support advisers, teaching assistants, administrative teams and school business professionals, their roles are incredibly varied.

“Together, they keep schools running smoothly and create the supportive environment that enables learning to thrive. Without them, schools simply couldn’t function.”

Support staff were presented with a box of chocolates and a UNISON goodie bag.