An exceptional Reaseheath coach has been recognised at a glittering awards night to celebrate dyslexic people and those who support them.
Teaching and Learning Coach Katie Frimston received the Exceptional Educator trophy at the national Dyslexia Awards on September 24. The ceremony was held at the Enginuity interactive museum in Coalbrookdale with about 100 guests present, and many more watching over live streams.
Katie was commended by the judging panel for her ‘positive influence’ in helping students to fulfil their goals and ambitions. The judges commented: “The support for Katie from her students shows what an exceptional educator she is. She has clearly been a positive influence, helping students to achieve things which previously they believed were impossible.”
Katie was originally nominated by a member of staff, who she had been supporting throughout the year. Receiving her award, she commented that being dyslexic herself made it easier to understand some of the challenges her students faced on a day-to-day basis.
Katie said: “I know how hard it can be from my own personal experiences. It’s only when you get the right support that you can begin to recognise your own potential and realise that it’s okay to be different.
“We still need to be more open about dyslexia, remove the stigma that surrounds it and shout about the achievements of dyslexic people – which is why the Dyslexia Awards is such a fantastic event. To know that people have gone out of their way to nominate me for this award is amazing. It means the absolute world to me.”
Awards founder Elizabeth Wilkinson MBE was delighted with the success of the event. She said: “All nine awards were open to nominations from right across the UK, and the judges were overjoyed with the quality of entries in all sections.
“It’s fabulous to hear so many stories of dyslexic people putting their stamp on the world, as well as the heart-warming stories of the tutors, teachers and support staff who empower and encourage success.
“Dyslexics can and do achieve wonderful things and it is really important that we have educators like Katie who see strengths, skills and potential. I am so pleased she has been recognised by the judges for the support she provides to students.”
The Dyslexia Awards showcase the diverse skills and strengths of dyslexic people and recognise those supporting them.
For more information visit https://theddc.org.uk/dyslexiaawards
