Lyn Owen won the Teaching Awards TA of the Year in 2002. Ten years ago when she joined Lathom High in Skelmersdale she was the first non-teaching assistant in the school; now she is a newly qualified HLTA who manages a team of seven TAs. She leads the induction, training and professional development of TAs at the school and sits in on the interview and selection process. She was commended by the awards for the procedures and policies she has set up for her department including a booklet she produced about the TA role specific to the school. Despite this Lyn hasn't forgotten the most important aspect of the job, 'I'm here to support the pupils first and foremost. That's my role, not admin!' Lyn was based in the English department for many years and even sat her GCSE alongside the pupils. Now she has given herself the challenge of MFL and thanks to her knowledge of school systems, the pupils and the subject she is invaluable when working with supply teachers.

Video Series: Secondary TAs
Release Date 2005