Skip to main content
Carly celebrating and presenting at the school

🌟 A Big Heart Award for Abacus Primary School 💙🏆

Submitted by fosteringtogether on 3 July 2026

We were delighted to surprise the incredible team at Abacus Primary School in Wickford, Essex, with a Fostering Together Big Heart for Children with Disabilities Award! 🫶💛

The award recognised the extraordinary support the school team had provided to a young girl in our fostering community over the previous two years. The nomination came from her foster carers, who wanted to recognise the dedication, care and commitment shown by everyone involved in helping her thrive. 🌟

We celebrated three members of the team in particular: Ria, 1:1 Support Worker; Rachael, SENCo; and Heidi, Headteacher. 👏

💙 Putting a child at the centre of every decision

Throughout their work with L, the team had consistently advocated for the right provision and support, making sure her needs remained at the heart of every decision about her education and future.

Their commitment went well beyond the expected. In one memorable example, a member of the team even jumped into a swimming pool fully clothed to help support an anxious child! 🏊‍♀️💦 It was a wonderful illustration of the lengths they were prepared to go to help L feel supported and overcome challenges.

As Carly, who nominated the team, explained:

“They have worked relentlessly to give L the best possible start for her future.” 💬💙

More staff at Abacus with their awards, presented by Carly, her family & the Fostering Together team.

🌱 Celebrating the difference they have made

As L prepared to move on to her next school, the award was an opportunity to thank Ria, Rachael, Heidi and the wider Abacus Primary School team for the positive difference they had made throughout her time there.

Transitions can be significant milestones for children and young people, making consistent, understanding support from the adults around them especially important. The team's dedication helped ensure L's needs were recognised and that she was supported to work towards the best possible future. 💛

We know the team will be hugely missed as L begins this next chapter, but we hope they know just how much their commitment has meant to her and her foster family. 🌟

🫶 Recognising those with Big Hearts

At Fostering Together, our Big Heart for Children with Disabilities Awards celebrate the people who go above and beyond to improve the lives of children and young people with disabilities and additional needs.

From schools and activity groups to individuals and community organisations, these awards recognise the care, determination and compassion that can make such a lasting difference to a child's life. 💙

Congratulations to Ria, Rachael, Heidi and everyone at Abacus Primary School! Thank you for everything you have done for L and for showing what outstanding, child-centred support can look like. 🏆👏