A HEADTEACHER has been "like a breath of fresh air" at a Worcester primary school.

Sarah Hanson, headteacher of St Barnabas Primary School, has been nominated as primary school headteacher of the year in the Worcester News Worcestershire Education Awards.

Mrs Hanson moved to the school in Green Lane at the beginning of 2015 after previous head Angela Deakin retired after nearly 20 years there.

Nick French, a parent at the school and former governor, put Mrs Hanson's name forward for the award.

He said: "She's just a breath of fresh air.

"She's got lots of energy and good ideas.

"She's got real concern for the children as little people.

"The previous headteacher was fantastic but the school needed a spring clean in the way it operates.

"Now, it's opened a nursery which is great, extending out what the school can offer in terms of facilities.

"The breadth of activities seems to be growing.

"She's improved standards, timekeeping and attendance are high on her agenda.

"I think these things mean a lot.

"Having worked closely with her, she didn't come in trying to change everything but it's been quite organic.

"I think the school is better for it and she is absolutely first rate."

He added: "The previous headteacher was well loved, well liked and had been there a long time.

"It was a tough act to follow but she's done that and got the staff on side and she's given people the opportunity to get involved and contribute.

"She's also very visible as the headteacher.

"When I drop my son Dominic off she's always there at the front of the school."

We've teamed up with the University of Worcester to host the awards, which celebrate the hard work, quality and dedication of those who work with Worcestershire's young people.

There are categories for teacher, headteacher and school of the year as well as support staff of the year and newcomer of the year.

There are also awards for special needs, early years education, college or post 18 education and training provider, community involvement and a fit for life award that celebrates anyone who helps encourage young people to be active.

Shortlisted nominees will be invited to a glittering gala dinner ceremony in June, where the winners will be announced.

Anyone can nominate and nominations are open until Friday, April 7. To nominate, visit worcesternews.co.uk/educationawards/nominate/