Green Lane Primary School’s early years team have been recognised as among the best in the country.
The early years, known as Happy Hollow, were awarded a Bronze Pearson National Teaching Award, on National Thank A Teacher Day.
Along with the award, the team, which is led by deputy headteacher Nic Linsley, also received a personal letter from Pearson president, author Sir Michael Morpurgo.
Sir Michael said, as a former teacher, he knows how hard and exhausting the job is, but also how rewarding it can be.
The author added: “For a child to have a great teacher like you is so important. You open doors, shine a light. You spend your working life passing on to children that you know and love. Your devotion to them, to colleagues, to the school you work in has been extraordinary.
“If I had a trumpet to blow and bells to ring out, then that would be wonderful. But I have only a pen and these words to celebrate your achievements, to express my admiration. So, bravo you, bravo.”
The award scheme has various levels including gold, silver, bronze and certificate.
Last year the Happy Hollow team earned a certificate and headteacher Rob Goffee was thrilled that this had been upgraded to bronze.
Mr Goffee said: “I am so delighted for our early years team, they work so hard to nurture and care for our youngest pupils and this honour is richly deserved.
“Green Lane is so fortunate to have Nic Linsley as its deputy head and early years lead.
“The provision she offers is outstanding in my opinion and now to have that recognised by the Pearson National Teaching Awards is the icing on the cake. The award came through on National Thank a Teacher Day, which makes it even more poignant!
“Can I take this opportunity to thank all the teaching staff, not just at Green Lane, but in Barnard Castle and beyond, who do such a brilliant job looking after the wonderful children in our community.”
