A TEACHER described as a 'hero' by parents has been nominated in the upcoming Worcestershire Education Awards.

Teachers from across the county have been nominated for the awards, which run every year and aim to shine a light on teachers who tirelessly support, teach and care for young people through what have been incredibly difficult times. 

Nicky Pritchard, who is the head of year nine at Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College on Timberdine Avenue, has received praise from parents. 

Worcester News: Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic CollegeBlessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College (Image: Google Maps)

Mrs Pritchard, who has been working at the school for the past 10 years, said the nomination made her smile.

And although Mrs Pritchard said teaching and being head of a year group can be a difficult job, the nomination made her feel proud and appreciated. 

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Nicky Pritchard said: "Teaching is not an easy job in the slightest.

"I read online that Head of Year is one of the most challenging and emotionally draining roles within a school and I would completely agree.

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"At times it feels like I am a social worker, a counsellor, a mediator or a family support worker, but when you receive positive emails from staff, parents and pupils it makes it worth all the hard work.

"To be nominated by a parent for an award makes me smile, makes me proud, makes me know that I’m appreciated".

Parents described Mrs Pritchard as a hero who gives effort, time, and knowledge to every single child.

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A parent, who didn't want to give her name, said she wanted to nominate Mrs Pritchard to draw attention to the support she gave the children during the pandemic.

The Worcestershire Education Awards in partnership with the University of Worcester has 12 categories and runs across all of our Worcestershire titles – the Worcester News, Malvern Gazette, Evesham Journal, Bromsgrove & Droitwich Advertiser, Redditch Advertiser and Kidderminster Shuttle.

The closing date for nominations is Monday, February 13.

Nominations take just a few minutes. To nominate someone click here

The awards will culminate in a black-tie event on Thursday, April 20, at 7pm at the Abbey Hotel, Great Malvern.