THE head of primary and secondary autism bases in Torfaen has been nominated in the South Wales Argus Schools & Education Awards 2018 for her “huge passion” for her work.

Gemma Bussy, who is the head of the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) base in Nant Celyn Primary school and Cwmbran High, has been nominated for the ‘Above and Beyond’ Award.

Mrs Bussy, who has been working with individuals with autism for many years, is also the inclusion manager at Nant Celyn Primary school, in Cwmbran.

The 40-year-old said she was “honoured and overwhelmed” to be nominated for the award.

Mrs Bussy, from Cwmbran, said: “It is lovely.

“I am really lucky, I work with wonderful children and staff in both schools.”

Mrs Bussy said she finds her job “very rewarding” as she watches young people “thrive and succeed”.

In her nomination form, mum Gemma Fry said that she met Mrs Bussy when her son Jayden couldn't cope in mainstream school and was transferred to the Primary ASD base.

“I was at crisis point at that time, yet from the very first day Gemma made me feel as though I wasn't on my own,” she said. “She is very understanding, an expert in ASD, and has a huge passion for her work.

“She treats every child as if they were her own and makes sure they get the best possible education and support whatever their needs. To her, her job is much more than just a job.

“She is one amazing person.”

Ms Fry said that, without Mrs Bussy, her son wouldn't have progressed and developed into the child he is today.

The South Wales Argus Schools & Education Awards 2018, which are now open for nominations, aim to recognise the extraordinary commitment and dedication that so many staff bring to education every day. This year there are 15 award categories.

The categories are open to people working within the Gwent area of Monmouthshire, Torfaen, Blaenau Gwent, Newport and Caerphilly. You can send nominations via our website until 5pm, January 12 at southwalesargus.co.uk/schoolsandeducationawards