Award-winning Hythehill P1 teacher says she is 'just doing her job'
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EMMA Rose had kind words to share about the "amazing young people" of Moray and Banffshire after she won an award.
At a glittering award ceremony at Brodie Countryfare, Emma was named the Primary Teacher of the Year at the Moray and Banffshire Heroes Awards 2023.
She won due to her quality as a P1 teacher at Hythehill Primary in Lossiemouth, but also through her incredible commitment to promoting British Sign Language (BSL).
Emma, who also teaches BSL at UHI Moray, has given her class pupils a great knowledge of the basics of sign language, which has even seen them sign their nativity songs.
Her passion for promoting sign language came from learning it to communicate with her profoundly deaf sister.
The understanding she gained, and the knowledge of her sister's experience, inspired Emma to make the language a key part of her life and work.
Taking the stage to collect her trophy from host Nicky Marr, Emma said a quick thank you in BSL before saying a few words.
Speaking after her moment in the spotlight, she said: "It was really quite something actually.
"I am used to five-year-olds – and it's a lot scarier being in front a big group of adults!"
She went on to say that the true heroes of the night were the incredible children featured during the awards ceremony.
"I am chuffed to bits," she said.
"Quite honoured really, especially coming after all those amazing young people. Because they're actually the heroes.
"We are just doing our jobs as teachers.
"It's a real honour to know that someone took the time to nominate me and then obviously that people took the time to vote as well."
Emma has been teaching for nine years and a nomination said she was an exceptional influence on pupil's development.
The nomination read: “She is probably one of the most supportive and understanding teachers ever.
"She encourages British Sign Language use throughout the whole school and everyone responds incredibly well.
"She gently encourages the individuals who may not be keen to learn and does this in such a kind way that the pupils respect and understand.”
