'I'm just doing my job' says Val after 40 years at school

An 80-year-old educational support worker has been honoured for the work she has done for a Sunderland school for more than 40 years.

- by Echo Reporter

Lunchtime supervisor Valerie Graham, who also supports the art and DT teams at St Aidan's Catholic Academy, was described as "supportive, dependable and caring" as she received the Achievement Award at Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust's annual Celebration Awards, which recognise staff who go the extra mile in their work.

Shortlisted for her energy and enthusiasm, as well as her kind, hardworking, considerate and dedicated approach to the boys at the school who “love” her, Val modestly said she didn’t recognise the description of herself and the work that she does which was shared at the awards ceremony at Ramside Hall.

"To me, I'm just doing my job," she said.

"If you like your job and you're happy in your job, it's everything."