Val Ostick is the senior midday supervisor, a first-aider and staffroom coffee lady at Ordsall Hall school in Retford, Nottinghamshire Val has worked at this 11-18 comprehensive for 19 years and is contracted to work two hours a day. But she puts in masses more time and energy and is the teachers’ candidate for our flowers this week. She’s a wise counsellor and reassuring presence in the staffroom, which she has turned into an oasis of calm with plants, comfy chairs, soothing music and a proper kitchen. “It makes us th envy of visitors and plays a major part in attracting new staff,” says Carrie Young, head of Year 7, who wrote to Friday magazine. Val’s husband Mick is also a great supporter of the school.Headteacher Arthur Deakin says they both deserve a big thank you.

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