A HEADTEACHER has said her win ‘meant a great deal to everyone’ at the school.

Therese Langford from St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Malvern won last year’s Headteacher of the Year Award.

Mrs Langford said: “It meant a great deal to everyone connected to the school to see all the achievements publically recognised.

“I would completely recommend people to nominate schools and individuals. Education has so many obstacles to overcome to ensure the young people in our care receive the provision they are entitled to.

“Any opportunity to celebrate staffs dedication should be taken with both hands.”

Mrs Langford was described in her original nomination as someone who had shown “exceptional leadership, outstanding commitment to her pupils and has brought transformational ambition to the school.

The school in Newtown Road was rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted inspectors in February, having required improvement in its previous two inspections.

Through the work of Mrs Langford and her staff, as well as pupils and parents, the school has been able to turn results around and thrive.

Inspectors said: “St Joseph’s is an inclusive, nurturing school with pupils at the heart of all staff do.

“Leaders inspire trust among staff. Through words and actions, they uphold the school’s values and communicate a strong ambition for it to improve.”

Christopher Park, who nominated Mrs Langford said: “Therese Langford has shown exceptional leadership, outstanding commitment to the success of her pupils and has brought transformational ambition to St Joseph’s school. She is a modest, hardworking and inspirational leader.

“She richly deserves this award.

“In turning the school round, she has done a difficult job magnificently. Importantly, she has developed such a strong, dedicated team of teachers in order to ensure that the excellent experience for pupils is sustainable.

“The efforts made by Therese to improve the school have been exceptional.”

“Children who spoke to Ofsted inspectors were keen to share their views on the positive impact the school has on their wellbeing and their ability to manage their own behaviour calmly in difficult situations. The children are now engaged in many external events such as choir competitions, sports events, charity support and the arts.”

The Headteacher of the Year Award, sponsored by the University of Worcester, celebrates hardworking and dedicated heads from schools across the county."