Mary Bailey is head of modern foreign languages at Lode Heath school, an 11-16 comprehensive in Solihull, West Midlands Two new teachers - Claire Mehegan and Paul Girling - joined Mary Bailey’s department last September, and two terms on they’ve nominated her for our flowers, champagne and chocolates to say thank you for making them feel valued. They’re full of admiration for her ability to manage crises with unflappable efficiency - she’s organised cover for two maternity leaves and a long sickness absence ths term. “She has been unfailingly supportive and positive and always has time for us no matter how busy she is,” they say. Headteacher Mark Jewby says the young teachers are “absolutely spot on about Mary. I couldn’t think of a better person”.

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.uk. Flowers kindly supplied by Marks amp; Spencer