Three school staff recognised for supporting children and families have been shortlisted for the Northamptonshire Education Awards.

Jean Winterbourn and Laura Waldcock, both from The Grange School, and Sharon Connerty, from DSLV Academy, are finalists at the 2026 awards.

Jean is in the running for the Lifetime Achievement award after more than 40 years at The Grange School.

She has worked at the school continuously since 1982, teaching generations of pupils and, in some cases, several members of the same family.

The school describes her as “dedicated, enduring, and inspirational”, praising the trust she has built with families.

Colleague Laura has been shortlisted for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Champion award for her work helping children access additional support.

E-ACT says her efforts have contributed to a 425% increase in pupils securing statutory support through Education, Health and Care Plans.

The Grange School has also achieved the 2026 Inclusion Quality Mark Inclusive School Award.

Meanwhile, Sharon is nominated for the Unsung Hero award following a career spanning almost three decades at DSLV Academy.

She started as a cleaner and dinner lady before becoming a learning support assistant and later a higher level teaching assistant.

E-ACT says she arrives early, stays late to help with extracurricular clubs and provides support to pupils, parents and colleagues.

Tom Campbell, chief executive of E-ACT, said: “Great schools are built on people who consistently go above and beyond for children and families.

“Jean, Laura and Sharon have each made an extraordinary contribution, whether through decades of dedication, championing inclusion or providing the everyday care and support that makes such a difference to pupils’ lives.

“Their commitment reflects everything we value at E-ACT, and it’s wonderful to see their impact recognised in this way.”

The award winners will be announced at a ceremony later this year.