Congratulations to J2 (Year 4) teacher, Suzanne Parker, who has been named Teacher of the Year at the 2023 Dee Radio Local Hero Awards.
In her own words, Mrs Parker was shocked but honoured to receive the award at the glittering awards evening held at the Mercure Chester Abbots Well Hotel on Thursday, 12 October.
Mrs Parker has pupil Abigail Garner (J3D), to thank for the nomination.
Abigail was in Mrs Parker’s class last year and made a fantastic case to the judges in her video nomination. She said: “Mrs P was the exact teacher I needed at the time.
“She is kind, funny, and goes above and beyond to support her students and listen to what they think is right. She gives so much of her time to her pupils and I feel comforted knowing she is there every day. She also really makes me smile.”
Abigail’s Mum, Jessica Garner, echoed Abigail’s words.
She added: “It’s difficult to nominate a single teacher for an award like this as there are so many great ones at King’s.
“For Abigail and so many other children in J2P, Mrs Parker’s genuine connection with her pupils, the bonds she forged with the class and encouraged them to form amongst themselves set her apart.
“Abigail – and her peers – believe that Mrs P was the best example of what a great teacher is. It really was one of the best years of her life, and she made memories in J2 that will last a lifetime.”
Mrs Parker thanked Abigail for her kind words and expressed what the award means to her.
She said: “It means so much to be nominated by a pupil for an award like this.
“All teachers go above and beyond every day for their pupils so to know that they recognise and appreciate this is incredibly rewarding.
“2023 marks my 25th year in teaching and this award is a wonderful way to celebrate this significant milestone.”
We are very proud of Mrs Parker and hope that her award enjoys pride of place in her house.