Christine Ryan is a mainscale classroom teacher specialising in ceramics at Carr Hill high school in Kirkham, near Preston, Lancashire She arrived at the school 10 years ago, having taught in the prison service, Since last autumn she has acted as mentor to student teacher Norma Foulds, who nominated her for our flowers, champagne and chocolates. Ms Foulds says: “She has made my first days of teaching so memorable.” In January Ms Foulds went with Year 8 on a residential trip to the Lake District, “expertly planned” by Miss Ryan “and I achieved things I never thought possible”.

Headteacher John Davies, whose 1300-strong comprehensive has just received the chief inspector’s accolade of “outstanding”, says: “Like many Carr Hill teachers, Chris Ryan goes quietly about her job making no fuss but applying high standards of care, concern and professionalism. She richly deserves this treat.”

Please send the name of your Friday Hero 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