Ian Gibson is a newly qualified teacher at The Ridings School, Halifax He spent two terms on teaching practice at The Ridings last year and was so keen to come back he is now covering a maternity leave in the English department. Music and ICT are his main subjects - expertise he puts to good use in media studies and after-school activities. He’s an excellent young teacher, cheerful and popular with staff and students alike. Teacher Jane Elam nominated him because she’s thrilled to have her job covered by someone so competent. “Not only has e looked after my classes admirably,” she writes, “but he has also endured a week of Ofsted and performed brilliantly.” Jane nominated Ian for our flowers, champagne and chocolates because she wants him to know how much he’s appreciated “by me and the rest of the department”.

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