Dingwall Academy principal teacher of pupil support named secondary teacher of the year at Highland Heroes 2022
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Molly Alexander, principal teacher of pupil support at Dingwall Academy, was recognised for her work during the pandemic.
The nomination for Molly praised her dedication to her pupils.
“Miss Alexander has been with us every step of the way, and has been the most incredible support,"it read.
"She has gone out of her way to help and show just how much she cares.
"She has never made it seem like she is ‘just doing her job’ – she has gone above and beyond at every stage.”
After receiving her award she said: “I am so shocked. I can't believe this has happened.
“Honestly, wow! I'm not normally stuck for words but I'm genuinely blown over by this award.
“I do my best but but it's a whole team effort from the school and everyone supporting each other.
“I maybe don't play things by the book all the time but I do my best for the kids.
“All you can do is be a voice for the children and parents.”
Previously a PE teacher, she then moved into guidance where she supports pupils from S1-S6.
At Dingwall Academy for nine years, she said the pupil support role had begun to change even before Covid-19, but the pandemic had brought into sharp focus the unique challenges and mental wellbeing issues that the younger generation now faces.
She said: "It’s been a really challenging time for all in education and the nature of guidance has changed where you are a mini social worker and mental health worker.
"The job has become even more important due to the reduction in support available from other agencies.
"But I love my job, it’s fantastic, every day is different. I genuinely try to do everything I can to support my pupils."
