TEACHERS who work with children with special needs and a school unit have been entered into our Community Pride Awards.

Clare Ahmed got in touch to nominate Chris Walmsley and Sarah Taylor of Hob Moor Oaks Primary School in Green Lane for the Teacher of the Year category.

She said: “Not only are Chris and Sarah exceptional teachers in their day job, they also take the time after class to teach a core stability exercise group to children who find accessing standard groups difficult.

“The children have a wide range of physical and psychological needs that Sarah and Chris are able to nurture using patience, positivity, inclusivity and simple kindness.

“The group is open to the whole family and gives siblings and parents the chance to develop their relationships through exercise.

“Consequently the children develop strength, confidence and social skills in a situation that can be overwhelming. This class and the teachers are so special we wanted the rest of York to know what these lovely teachers achieve.”

She gave examples of the children’s reaction to the class, adding: “Edward loves the teachers and likes to copy what they do and Bethannie enjoys it so much she wanted to come along on her birthday.”

Dave and Vicky Lee wrote in to nominate the Wiltshire Unit at Joseph Rowntree School as School of the Year, for the way they teach and help pupils with special needs and its warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Community Pride Awards are run by The Press with City of York Council and the primary sponsor is York-based healthcare organisation Benenden. Nominees must live in, or contribute to life in the City of York Council area.

Finalists will be announced in The Press next month and will be invited to an awards ceremony at York Racecourse in October.