A TEACHER from a school in Malvern has been nominated in the Worcestershire Education Awards.

Claire Smout, who is a year three and four teacher at Great Malvern Primary School, has worked there for 25 years and says her job is highly rewarding.

She said: "I have seen a lot of change at the school over the last 25 years but what I love about it is the way all the staff are entirely focussed on making sure the children get the best education possible.

"Every child matters. We have to make sure that we do everything we can for them as they only get one shot at their childhood."

Mrs Smout, 57, said year three and four is one of the most important phases in a child's education, saying: "Year three and four is so important because even though they are only seven, they are at a stage in life where they begin to develop their personalities and become the people who they will go on to be."

"The job goes so far beyond teaching and in this age group you have to find the right way of teaching that helps the pupils develop their personalities and gain their independence as they get older."

Mrs Smout was keen to praise the work of her colleagues at the school, which was also nominated for Primary School of the Year, adding: "As much as I have been nominated, it really is a team effort.

"This school is nurturing and the staff all put in so much hard work so it is no surprise we were also nominated for a whole school award."

The deadline for nominations is April 18. Finalists are chosen by a panel of judges and winners are announced during an awards ceremony at the University Arena on June 20.

To nominate someone, go to worcesternews.co.uk/awards/worcestershire_education_awards