Year 6 teacher Rachel Simmons, from Eyrescroft Primary School, in Bretton, who has been put forward for the award has also reached the regional finals in the national Best Teacher Award (BTA).

Mrs Simmons, who will be going off to the BTA finals in Norwich on June 21, said: “Two judges came into the school to observe my lessons. They then spoke with children, parents and teachers.

“Knowing that everyone gave up their time to speak on my behalf is absolutely fantastic.

“I am very excited, but also a little nervous. It is lovely to be recognised for doing my job.”

Assistant deputy principal at Sir Harry Smith Community College Laurie Richards was nominated by teaching assistant Julie Skipworth.

Mr Richards, who has dedicated more than 30 years of his life to young people and education, says it is all part of the job.

On nominating him, Mrs Skipworth said: “Laurie is an upstanding member of our school, and is respected by staff, pupils and parents alike.

“He makes a mark on most people’s lives, as pupils past and present always talk of him.

“Laurie is always ready to lend an ear and will help in any way that he can, both with colleagues and students.”

Mr Richards was suprised at being nominated for the award, but also said he was very pleased.

Elsewhere, Rainbow Pre-School, based in Welbourne Primary School, also has a star teacher – Janice Foulkes-Arnold.

On nominating the teacher, Marie Haiford, who has a daughter at the pre-school, said: “Janice has been at Rainbow for the past 20 years.

“She manages to keep up to date with education theory and pre-school practices by attending courses and she had a space for our daughter to attend in, which she started last summer.”

Mrs Foulkes-Arnold was shocked to hear that she had been put up for the prize.

She said: “I am very flattered, I don’t think that anything I do particularly stands out.

“We are a friendly pre-school which welcomes all children and parents.”