Where?

Longley Primary School, Sheffield, where Amanda is deputy headteacher.

Why?

Amanda joined Longley Primary in 2007, when the school was in special measures. She has worked tirelessly alongside two headteachers and a talented leadership team to bring about significant improvements to teaching and learning. She has been relentless in her approach and has been a fantastic role model for staff, raising expectations and aspirations.

She has recruited and trained an army of reading volunteers and is the school’s resident “literary expert”, often being approached by children and staff alike to recommend or provide books for lessons and for enjoyment.

Amanda leads with a level of passion for ensuring equality for all learners. She is committed and is loved and respected by all. She is a great teacher who models excellence in all her practice - satisfactory is never good enough. Children and staff have fun when Amanda is around, whether she is dressed up as a fairy for Children in Need, in pyjamas for Red Nose Day or encouraging staff to present the merits of Assessment for Learning Strategies, in the style of Dragons’ Den during staff meetings.

Nominated by?

Mo Andrews, lead headteacher, who says: “Amanda will be an amazing headteacher, particularly supporting vulnerable children in schools in challenging circumstances, where her drive and passion can really have an impact. Amanda doesn’t fully realise how amazing a leader she is and her only motivation is positive outcomes for children, never herself.”

Thanks to the National College for Leadership of Schools and Children’s Services for nominating this week’s rising star. Send in your one to watch to features@tes.co.uk, including 300 words and a picture.