OUTSTANDING teachers from Tendring have been recognised for their commitment to their schools.

Essex County Council organised the 2019 Essex Teaching Awards, which took place at Hylands House in Chelmsford last week.

The winner of the Secondary School Headteacher of the Year award was Rob James, of the Ramsey Academy in Halstead, but Neil Gallagher, of Clacton County High School, was highly commended for his work.

Clacton County High’s subject leader for religious education, was highly commended in the Student Choice award category.

A spokesman for the school said: “We are exceedingly proud that, for the sixth year running, our exceptional staff have been recognised with another double celebration at this year’s awards.

“Andrew was nominated by one of his students and was presented with a highly commended certificate to recognise his fantastic achievement.

“Neil Gallagher was one of two finalists and also received a certificate to acknowledge his hard work and determination to raise the aspirations of our young people.”

Early years child care practitioner Gemma Baker, from Nanny Jo’s Day Nursery in Thorpe, was also highly commended.

She was described by the parent nominating her as a “real life Mary Poppins”.

The commendation added: “Children are drawn to her as she has a natural gift in the way she makes every child feel special, remembering the little things they have said to her and following up on them by asking how they got on and how things went.

“She has an amazing firm but fair technique and skilfully leads groups of children through learning tasks with fun, enthusiasm and open-ended questions.

“Her enthusiasm radiates out into all the staff making the whole setting a lovely place to be.”

Ray Gooding, Essex county councillor responsible for education, said: “I’m delighted to have had another opportunity to celebrate the fantastic contribution our education colleagues make to the lives of children .

“I’m pleased we’ve also recognised our early years colleagues for the first time.”