Extra special pupil escorts

Jim Bleazard and Maureen Longley with disabled pupils Edward Minien-Keane (left) and George Martin (both nine)

PUPIL escorts at Watersheddings Primary School are the bees knees according to the headteacher.

They drive and escort pupils with complex physical disabilities to and from home and school every day.

And Jim Bleazard and Maureen Longley also take them to the swimming baths for their swimming lessons. But it’s not what they do — it’s the way that they do it.

And for this reason headteacher Joanna Conway has nominated the two pupil escorts for a Pride in Oldham award.

Mrs Conway said: “Their kind, caring and nurturing attitude towards the children is exemplary and they always go above and beyond their job.

“They spend a lot of time talking to the pupils and making what could be a boring journey fun.

“Jim and Mo are also supportive of school and join in with school fundraising efforts.

“I feel, along with the pupils and staff who work alongside Jim and Mo, that they are extremely deserving of a public award to acknowledge the work they undertake with such enthusiasm and care.”

For the last three years, Jim and Maureen have been operating the service and until recently, when two pupils moved on to senior school, they had four children in their care.

Maureen said: “We did not expect this nomination. But it is really nice to be appreciated.”


To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, tell us:

The name of the person or group nominated

A contact number for them, if known

Their job title and place of work, if relevant

Your reason for the nomination

Your name

Your contact number

Send your info by email to editorial@oldham-chronicle.co.uk, marked “Pride in Oldham Awards, 2008

Pride in Oldham is supported by:

Innovative Technology

J W Lees Brewery

Molnlycke Health Care

Northern Counties Housing Association

Oldham Council

University Centre Oldham

Warburtons