A Pastoral Mentor described as "an integral part of the school" has been nominated for Support Staff of the Year in the Worcester Education Awards.

Lisa Richardson, from The Chantry High School in Martley, was nominated for the award for her dedication to helping support pupils who are struggling or facing difficulties.

Mrs Richardson, 45, has been at the school for nine years, and said her job is more than just a job, saying: "I am mainly responsible for student wellbeing, whether that is mental health, friendship trouble or anything that is on their mind.

"Whatever they are struggling with, or even if they are just having a bad day, they can come in and we will be there for them.

"I try to be as accessible as possible to pupils and will regularly catch up with them during the day to see how they are getting on.

"A big part of the job is making sure the pupils know they can talk about it and being open with them goes a long way.

"Helping our pupils to overcome their life and mental health challenges is why I'm here, and if I can make the difference to just one or two then I have achieved what I set out to do."

Mrs Richardson was keen to praise her colleagues at the school, saying the caring ethos is something they all buy into.

She added: "It is a real team effort from everyone at the school. It is really important to be able to offer that support to pupils, especially with mental health and wellbeing being such big subjects nowadays."

The deadline for nominations is April 18.

Finalists are chosen by a panel of judges with winners announced during an awards ceremony at the University Arena in Worcester on June 20.