Where?

Anna is head of the gifted and talented programme at Whitehill Junior School, Hitchin, Hertfordshire.

Why?

Anna joined Whitehill in September 2002 following a successful career in publishing at a high-profile consumer magazine. The skills she gained there have enhanced her career in teaching as she is now the leading literacy teacher in the school.

She is responsible for the school’s gifted and talented programme. She works with parents and staff to make sure each child has the opportunities they need to achieve the best outcome for them and the school.

Anna’s proactive nature has led her to create - and run - a Latin club. She also has responsibility for the school’s environmental area and started an after-school gardening club. She is co-ordinating the school’s application for a grant to support its continuing efforts to encourage sustainability.

Anna’s colleagues praise her understated, yet inspirational, style of teaching and acknowledge the enormous impact she has had on the school - raising teaching standards “from good to great”.

Nominated by?

Fran Bradshaw, headteacher, who says: “Anna is an asset to our team - she brings a high level of maturity and insight and is very well respected by parents, colleagues and pupils. When she speaks, people listen and she really gets the best out of the children. I am encouraging her to apply for the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) as I know she will make a fantastic headteacher one day.”

Thanks to the National College for Leadership of Schools and Children’s Services for nominating this week’s rising star. Send in your one to watch to features@tes.co.uk, including 300 words and a picture.