A TEACHER was delighted to win the Special Education Needs (SENCO) Award for the second year running.

Julia Husband, from Hanley Castle High School, said: "I'm really privileged to have won again. This is the second time.

"It's not just recognition of me but recognition of the whole team around me who support children with special educational needs."

Guests at the awards ceremony heard Julia Husband described as an inspirational teacher.

Aspire is an SEN resource base she created, providing an innovative blend of bespoke educational interventions, emotional support and a fun club.

The base was described as a safe haven where students with additional needs can learn and socialise. Mrs Husband's priority is the wellbeing and needs of the children under her care. It is the focus that has led to Hanley Castle being a popular parental choice for students with SEN.

Representatives from Mencap Worcester said they were happy to be finalists for the award.

Joyce Tainton said: "It's highlighted all the good stuff that's going on (in education) and reminds everyone of what's important."

Mencap continually campaigns for equality, which includes breaking down barriers to employment, tackling negative attitudes and incorrect assumptions in the community.

The service works closely with local employers to open up job opportunities for its clients.

Dawn Morris, from Wishing Well Nursery, was also happy to be a finalist for the award.

She said: "I'm happy to be here, just to be a finalist is a great honour."

She moved into her role as SENCO when Wishing Well Nursery, Rainbow Hill opened in January 2016.

Her work has been integral in ensuring the children with additional needs in the nursery's care are fully supported and given the best opportunities to reach their potential.

She helped the nursery, in Perdiswell, achieve an outstanding rating in its Ofsted inspection in January 2018.