NOMINATIONS for an inspirational teacher at Sir Thomas Boteler CE High School came flooding in with pupils, parents and colleagues wanting Ben Large to receive recognition for all his hard work – he is a real life hero.

Thirteen outstanding winners have been honoured as part of this year’s Warrington Guardian Education Awards.

The annual awards aim to celebrate schools, nurseries and colleges across the town, championing pupils and students, teachers and assistants, and classes and teams.

 

READ MORE:

All the worthy winners of the Warrington Guardian Education Awards

 

Ben has been teaching for 17 years and joined the Sir Thomas Boteler family in September working in a unit providing extra support for pupils across all year groups.

One of his students said: “Mr Large is my key worker and he isn’t just a teacher – he’s my hero.

“Imagine starting high school struggling to communicate verbally, having difficulties with social interactions and even not wanting to walk into school due to anxiety.

“Imagine having chronic pain and no one understanding it or being able to support it.

“I didn't feel I could go to school; I felt alone; I felt like no one cared; I had lots of time off because I couldn't handle school or form a relationship with anyone, then Mr Large introduced himself and he has been helping me ever since.

“People may think this is his job, but most importantly, he is my friend and without him I wouldn't be in school.

“I couldn't handle it without his support every day.

“I don't think Mr Large knows how much he helps people like me.

“He has helped me realise I am someone - he makes me feel worthy and he helps me understand that it's ok to be different.”

Parents believe Ben deserves this award because “he ensures that his students are the heart of everything” and “always puts the well-being of his pupils before anything”.

 

WATCH BEN RECEIVE HIS AWARD:

One nomination said: “I started the year fearing for my son's well-being and education, but with Mr Large fighting in his corner, I know he will succeed throughout the many challenges yet to come.”

Headteacher at Sir Thomas Boteler Bev Scott-Heron said: “Mr Large is an amazing member of the Boteler family and always puts our young people first.

“He regularly goes above and beyond for the young people and their families to ensure we provide the best possible provision.

“He works closely with our most vulnerable young people to ensure they come to school and are safe and happy.

“He is incredibly skilled in ensuring he gets the best possible outcomes from your young people and these outcomes are both holistic and academic.

“He embraces our Christian values of hope, compassion and endurance and will never give up on anyone.

“He has the incredibly high expectations, high aspirations and high standards to ensure any child in his care will succeed.”