Shocked. Ecstatic. Grateful. Happy. Lucky.

These are just a few of the words that teacher Hannah Kerrigan could manage to utter after she was announced as the Warrington Guardian’s teacher of the month.

The revelation came as a complete shock to Meadowside Primary teacher Miss Kerrigan, who has only been working in the profession for just over a year.

But it clearly came as no surprise to the school’s pupils, parents and colleagues if the reaction was anything to go by.

The 22-year-old from Chapelford, who was met with a rapturous applause when she stood up to collect her award, said: “I never expected this.

“I can’t really put it into words how happy I am that someone took the time out to nominate me.”

Looking back on her short career in teaching, there was never any doubt in Miss Kerrigan's mind that she would grow up to become a teacher.

Now, after bagging her dream job, she can’t imagine doing anything else.

She said: “I know it’s a cliché to say this but I wanted to become a teacher to make a difference.

“I love being around the children and helping them to progress - it doesn’t feel like a job because I love it.”

Getting out a bed in the morning is never a chore for the year one teacher and she counts the children as the reason behind her passion for the job.

“They always make me smile. Especially when they call me Miss Princess Miss Beautiful Flower Head during register,” laughed Miss Kerrigan.

“It is so rewarding but I wouldn’t be able to do it without my teaching assistants as we work together as team. They’re great,” she added.

Her win will also mark the first time a school in the town has won the award twice.

Each month, the Warrington Guardian celebrates the hard work, dedication and achievements of one deserving teacher in the town.

The award, which is sponsored by education recruitment and training consultancy Academics Ltd, honours a teacher who has made a real difference to the school community.

To nominate a deserving teacher for next month’s teacher of the month award visit warringtonguardian.co.uk or email lauren.hirst@nqnw.co.uk