Today marks national "Thank a Teacher Day' when we collaboratively celebrate excellence in education across the UK, and take time to reflect on the great work our teachers do to help our students achieve their best. 

We are delighted to announce that Ms Barnes, teacher of English, has received a 'Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School' Certificate of Excellence, awarded by the Pearson National Teaching Awards 2024.

Ms Barnes joined Cleeve Park School in September 2020, but also works across TKAT at Welling School and Orchards Academy.

Along with her certificate, Ms Barnes received a personal letter of thanks from Sir Michael Morpurgo, President of of the Pearson Teaching Awards.

Sir Michael wrote: "I congratulate you, and thank you. For a child to have a great teacher like you is so important, you open doors, you shine a light. Your devotion to children, to colleagues, to the schools you work in, has been extraordinary...bravo you, bravo!"

Executive Headteacher Mrs O'Donnell said:

"We are really delighted and proud that Ms Barnes' positive impact and dedication has been recognised nationally. This award is well deserved and reflects the admiration we have for her within our school community -  thank you for all you do Ms Barnes!"

Ms Barnes said:

"It was a massive surprise to receive this award - teaching is such a rewarding job for me, I feel professional pride to be recognised and to know that my work making a difference. It has been even more special to be acknowledged by the school family that I care so much about"