PRIMARY HEAD TEACHER OF THE YEAR

NAME – Jacqui Young

SCHOOL – St Stephen’s CE Primary

BASED – Robinson Street, Blackburn

NUMBER OF PUPILS – 450

SCHOOL MISSION/VISION – Whatever the challenge we aim high with God in our hearts DESCRIBED as “pro-active and open-minded”, Jacqui Young’s sheer commitment to the school, its pupils and staff shines through.

The school’s results since she started there in 2010 – after it had been put into “special measures” – speak for themselves, her team say she always goes the extra mile.

“She works tirelessly in making the school an exciting place to learn and work. Here dedication and perseverance led to accolades last year which included the SIAMS outstanding judgement as well as winning the Lancashire Telegraph Primary School of the Year award!” said her deputies Michelle Mercer and Sian Haworth.

The judges of the category, sponsored by Alpha Digital, were struck by Jacqui’s all-round approach to education with the emotional wellbeing of the pupils playing an important part alongside academic achievement.

“Her drive towards excellence has seen the school through difficult times and continues to inspire her staff. There are many ideas that would have scared many heads that have come to fruition as a result of her being pro-active and open minded,” said Michelle and Sian.

Jacqui was characteristically modest.

“I was over the moon last year when we won the Primary School of the Year Award and we cheekily tried for this again. But, unbeknown to me, I was nominated for this award and therefore I am, I’m obviously very proud and honoured to receive this, although a little embarrassed because it is never just one person who makes a difference in a school, it is very much a team effort.

“However it is another great accolade for the school. The role as head here at St Stephen’s has been very challenging but also extremely rewarding and I am very proud of all that we have achieved at the school for the children and the local community.

It is about getting people to be the best that they can be and a good education gives them choices in life,” she said.