Sharing ‘thanks’ from students for Teacher Appreciation Day

On 5th October, we will join people across the UK in celebrating Teacher Appreciation Day – a chance to recognise the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and expertise of our teaching staff.

At Abingdon & Witney College, our teachers do more than deliver lessons. They inspire confidence, nurture resilience, and guide our students towards futures they never thought possible. Their patience, encouragement, and expertise ripples far beyond the classroom, shaping lives in ways that are often hard to put into words.

This year, we wanted to share some of the heartfelt messages from students and families that show just how powerful the impact of a great teacher can be:

From our learners

“You always pushed me to aim higher, believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, and made learning something I actually enjoyed… I’ve received my offer for Cyber Security at UWE, and I’m feeling jubilant.”

“I’ve come such a long way, and I know that’s in no small part down to your patience, encouragement, and guidance.”

“She teaches with such compassion, clarity, and strength… She’s more than just a great teacher – she’s an inspiration.”

“I was really confident about passing maths, but I never expected to be only a few marks away from a grade 5… it’s all thanks to having such a great teacher like you.”

“The only reason I finished it was because you believed in me – and that belief gave me the confidence to push myself.”

From parents and guardians

“He has really enjoyed his Level 1 Computing course, and he has gained so much confidence.”

“Thank you so much for your help with Oliver this year, and for taking the time to check he was okay and support him in reaching the end of the course.”

“She was able to pass both maths and English after four years out of mainstream education, and she has now applied for an apprenticeship.”

Reflecting on the difference our teachers make, Helen Brown, Head of Learning Development, said:

“So many of our teachers are truly extraordinary. Every day they go above and beyond to help learners reach their full potential, and National Teachers’ Day gives us the perfect opportunity to celebrate and thank them.”

Every one of these stories represents the countless unseen moments that happen daily across our campuses – a word of encouragement at the right time, the extra patience shown when a learner struggles, or the belief that helps someone see their own potential.

On this Teacher Appreciation Day, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to every member of our teaching staff. Your impact goes far beyond qualifications – you help transform lives, open doors, and create futures that students never thought possible. You give our students the confidence to be themselves, and the inspiration to be extraordinary.