Teacher Jane Balderson has worked at Alexandra junior school in the London borough of Hounslow for more than 20 years but shows the same enthusiasm and commitment as she did on her first day A Year 6 teacher, she has recently become the school’s special educational needs co-ordinator, taking responsibility for nearly a third of the pupils with the usual “Jane-like” excitement - attending courses, organising systems and learning something new. As well as special needs, many pupils have English as asecond language since the school is near Heathrow airport and refugee children are on the roll. Headteacher Heather Sullivan says Jane is a gem, giving “unfailing commitment” and is widely admired by colleagues, parents and pupils.

Please send the name of your Friday Hero - and why he or she should get a bouquet - to Sarah Bayliss, Friday magazine, Admiral House, 66-68 East Smithfield, London E1W 1BX, or email sarah.bayliss@tes.co.uk. Flowers kindly supplied by Marks and Spencer .