First class student and prize winner
Tracy Gerrell graduates from the University of Hertfordshire this week with a double prize – a first class honours degree and the Erika Lovelady IPDA prize for making an outstanding contribution to the professional development of others.
Tracy’s winning entry was her final year dissertation. It focused on how children with profound and multiple learning difficulties can be supported to access and participate in whole class literacy lessons.
Her work was praised for addressing social and diversity issues as well as demonstrating new conceptual thinking. Tracy is already making an impact in her role at Lakeside School for children with special needs in Welwyn Garden City.
Tracy Gerrell said: “I was overwhelmed at gaining a first class honours for my degree, and even more so when I was informed of winning the IPDA prize. I feel very proud that others have appreciated my hard work and dedication to improving the quality of education for children with profound and multiple learning difficulties. I hope to continue promoting others and my own professional understanding and development in this important area of special needs. I would like to thank the schools involved within my research and the terrific staff at the University of Hertfordshire for all their support in my studies. ”
Tracy’s consistent efforts were also recognised on her graduation day when the University of Hertfordshire awarded her an ‘Excellence Award’ for her academic achievement and consistently high grades.
Tracy is among the 4,300 new graduates who have celebrated academic success in St Albans this week. The annual Awards ceremony for the University of Hertfordshire took place at the Cathedral and Abbey Church of St Alban.
For more information, please contact Ann Bruno, the University of Hertfordshire Press Office on 01707 28 1269.