JUDITH Williams is credited with transforming the fortunes of Peel Park Primary School.

Her motto ‘high expectations, every child, no excuses’ sums up her ethos to education and to the youngsters at the Accrington school where she has been head teacher for 11 years.

It’s not only the judges who have been impressed by Mrs Williams’ headship. The school has been graded as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted and recently received a letter from David Laws, Minister of State for Schools, commending the school on the progress and attainment of its disadvantaged pupils.

His letter said: “I would like to thank you for your leadership in making such a difference to the future success of your pupils.”

That’s something our judges agreed with in this category, sponsored by Key Stage Teacher Supply, after they read the nomination by deputy head Alison Padgett.

Alison said: “Her creative style has brought new innovations to the school. The children in school love and respect their head teacher and are always eager to please. This is reflected in the exemplary behaviour they exhibit.

“Judith cannot walk around the school without children rushing to greet her, share a story or show off some of their work. “Despite a heavy workload Judith always has time for individual students, making them feel an important member of our community.”

During her time at the school Mrs Williams has introduced several new innovations: the playing field is now home to a Forest School; there’s a sunshine room where youngsters learn to work and play together and then there’s the host of accolades the school has been awarded from National School of Creativity Status to flagship status for Healthy Schools.

“I knew nothing about this nomination. It’s overwhelming. I was quite emotional when I heard about it. It’s a real honour and utterly fantastic,” said Mrs Williams.

And after being presented with the award, she said: “I would like to thank my husband, Brian. He has put up with me being a teacher for 40 years. He should have this award!

“One of the things about teaching, sadly, is it’s our families that suffer because we give so much to everybody else.

“I have always tried to create a school I would have for my own children and the quality of our school can be judged by the quality of the relationships we have.”

Perhaps the last word should go to her deputy who added: “Judith always credits the achievements of the school to the team of people she works with but we at Peel Park recognise that every successful team has a leader who can motivate and inspire.”