A TEACHING assistant at a Dukinfield high school has scooped a prestigious national award for her outstanding work supporting young people.
Fallon Thomas, a Higher Level Teaching Assistant at Rayner Stephens High School, has been named Support Practitioner of the Year at the NASEN Awards 2025. The awards celebrate excellence in special educational needs and inclusion across the country.
Fallon, who has worked at the school for four years, is known for her dedication to supporting students’ wellbeing and learning. She leads The Hive, the school’s SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) provision, and plays a key role in helping students with additional needs to thrive.
As Young Carers Coordinator, Fallon has helped Rayner Stephens become only the second school in Tameside to achieve the Young Carers Bronze Award. She also serves as the school’s ADHD Champion, developing resources and training to support inclusive classroom practice, and works as a key worker for 28 students, ensuring their education plans reflect their strengths and goals.
The school’s SENCo, Rosie Knowles, said:
“We are absolutely over the moon for Fallon — this award couldn’t be more deserved! She pours her heart into everything she does and has made such a positive difference to so many of our students.”
Headteacher Martin Davies added:
“This is an incredible and well-earned achievement. Fallon embodies the compassion, dedication and inclusive values that define our school. To see her recognised at a national level is wonderful — and a true reflection of the exceptional work happening here at Rayner Stephens.”
Fallon’s win has been warmly received by the school community, which continues to build a strong reputation for inclusion, wellbeing, and student support across Tameside.