Where?

Emma is a classroom teacher at Thorverton CofE Primary School, Exeter, Devon.

Why?

Emma joined Thorverton as an NQT in 2006 and was initially employed to co-ordinate music and modern foreign languages.

Although she primarily teaches the foundation stage and Year 1 class, she has recently expanded her teaching role and now also spends one day a week with Years 4, 5 and 6, broadening her experience and providing her with a holistic view of the primary sector.

Emma’s creative flair has a huge impact on the school. One initiative has been the implementation of “provision maps”, which she uses to “map out” how each area of the classroom can be utilised to aid pupils’ learning and development. Emma plans to extend this system across the school so that all areas of learning are clearly identified.

Emma is also dedicated to creating more opportunities for play and active based learning throughout the school.

Colleagues credit Emma with making strides in the development of the creative curriculum and say she is a key player in a great team that works so well together at Thorverton.

Nominated by?

Tania Beard, headteacher, who says: “Emma is a real star, she makes an incredible difference to all the children in the school. She is part of a great team of staff that we have here.

The next logical step for Emma would be to take her National Professional Qualification for Headship - she will make a fantastic head in the future.”

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.