THE headteacher sets the tone of every school and a whole lot more besides.

Effective leadership and popularity don’t always go hand in hand, but there are exceptions and the winner of the Primary Headteacher of the Year, sponsored by Key Stage Teacher Supply, is most certainly one.

When Hapton Church of England and Methodist Primary School business manager Sheralyn Wheeler and interventions manager Erica Uttley decided to enter their head for the Lancashire Telegraph Schools Awards, they were amazed when every one of 20 staff produced a positive tribute to her.

Even more astonished was the head herself, Jacquie Clarke, when told she had won an award she did not know she had been entered for!

In their submission the pair wrote: “Over the last four years working with Jacquie has been a very happy experience.

“The children come first and she works tirelessly for the benefit of them, as well as their families, the community and the staff.

“Her dedication to achieving the best possible outcome either academically or otherwise for every child in school is heart-warming to witness.”

A recent Ofsted report said the school had flourished ‘under the astute and skilful leadership of its headteacher and added: “Over a relatively short period effective action by leaders has brought about significant improvements in teaching and in pupils’ achievement.”

In her tribute, teaching assistant Sophie Smith wrote: “Often in schools you find headteachers are not as hands-on as staff would like. However Miss Clarke knows each child individually and offers guidance and support which, in turn, enables children to progress and achieve.”

Colleague Marie Williams wrote: “She is a people person taking a keen interest in staff, pupils and parents and it is equally obvious that this is reciprocated by the children.

“She works tirelessly for the school whilst retaining a fantastic sense of humour and a sense of proportion.”

Learning mentor Alison Mangham said: “Even though headships can be full-on and at times stressful, Jacquie remains calm, resilient and positive at all times.”

  • Judges were also impressed by a nomination for Michael Duxbury, head of St Peter’s RC Primary School, Blackburn, which praised him for listening ‘to pupils, staff and parents’, ‘knowing by name every child in his care’, ‘supporting staff by example’ and ‘organising everything to perfection’.