National Teaching Assistants Day is on September 16 but why wait until then to show your appreciation for these hard-working people who make such a difference in South Tyneside.
We have picked a selection of photos of teaching assistants from the Shields Gazette archives and we hope they bring back memories of great times in the classroom.
If they do, why not get in touch and tell us more.
5. Shaping up in 2008
Anna Nelson leads the lunchtime fitness class for staff at Lambton Primary School, including higher level teaching assistant Tracy Tate, front centre. Photo: PB
6. Non-uniform day at St Leonards
Teaching assistant Debbie Evans is pictured front centre on the non-uniform day at St Leonard's RC Primary School in 2004. Photo: PB
7. Model students at Oxclose Primary in 2008
Year 1 pupils at Oxclose Primary School are pictured with the willow model they made of the Angel of the North, with teaching assistant Sharon Wilson who did much of the work with the students. Photo: PB
8. Tell us more
Which teaching assistant from times gone by deserves a mention for their excellent work? Tell us more by emailing [email protected]. Photo: TY