Ruth’s starring role at home and school

A CARER by night and a model pupil during the day. It is no wonder then that Waterhead Academy pupil Ruth Jones has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Year 9 pupil Ruth (13) lives with her parents and has an older sister and younger brother in Holts.

Her dad is registered blind, her mum has a muscle condition and therefore has limited ability, and her younger brother has epilepsy and autism.

She helps around the house with filling out forms, doing the weekly shopping and helping to make the main meals.

She said: “I was shocked when I heard that I had been nominated because I thought I didn’t deserve it.

“I’m used to doing this on a daily basis but sometimes it is a long and tiring day.

“I also have to wake up earlier than most because I have to help my brother get ready and get him on a bus.”

Ruth also finds time for extra curricular activities, such as playing the violin, while her dyslexia has not stopped her from starring in the lead role in two school productions in the past year.

Teaching assistant Alison Leach, who nominated Ruth, said that she puts in a long day at school.

“She does an awful lot at home but she is one of the most committed pupils at the school,” she said. “Ruth is so unassuming. She’s one of the first students to arrive. She’s a model pupil.”

Drama is one of Ruth’s favourite subjects and she has a supporting group of friends.

Ruth added: Since I started at Waterhead Academy I have more confidence in myself and involved in more after school, like drama and music.

“In primary school I never had a big role because the teachers thought I couldn’t learn lines because of my dyslexia, but now I’m in high school my teachers have given me bigger parts and now I have the lead role in the next school show.

“I don’t think I do any more than anyone my age, but if I work I will hope that one day I will be a director in theatre.”