Top-class teacher in running for award

Pride in Oldham nominee Janette Hadcroft, deputy principal at Alt Academy.

A "ONE in a million" deputy head teacher has been nominated for the Pride Awards.

Janette Hadcroft, deputy principal at Alt Academy, was put forward for the "amazing support" she gave to a schoolgirl and received a second nomination.

In her role as special educational needs coordinator (Senco), Mrs Hadcroft taught Natalie Benson (11) who was diagnosed with sensory processing disorder around 19 months ago.

Nominator Jodie Cooke (27), mum to Natalie, praised the teacher for going the extra mile and for helping her daughter to feel involved at the school.

She said: "If I didn't have her I probably would not be where I am now.

"It took me a few years to get Natalie diagnosed.

"Right the way through infants, people didn't think there was anything wrong but Janette listened and the support she gave my eldest daughter was amazing.

"Natalie has the mind of a seven- or eight-year old and is often in her own little bubble.

"She is forgetful and seeks attention.

"Janette made sure that my Natalie didn't feel left out or any different.

"She went out of her way and helped me find an occupational therapist when I wasn't getting anywhere.

"She is one in a million.

"The school would not be the same without her."

A second nomination for Mrs Hadcroft came from Alt Academy principal Russell Learmont.

He said: "She has worked in Alt for many years and seen many many changes through difficult times.

"Yet she is a constant rock to the school and the community alike. I have only known her for 12 months but her commitment to inclusion for families is second to none."

Mrs Hadcroft said: "I feel speechless and a bit overwhelmed. This has made my day, probably my year.

"I have a really good relationship with Jodie and have seen her on her way up. Our principal is new to the school and I think we have been learning from each other.

"Like any teacher you want to feel like you can make a difference and that is why I do what I do."