COME rain or shine the head teacher of Christ Church C of E Primary will stand in the playground greeting pupils as they hurry into school each morning.

He does this because he cares about all those who walk through its school doors.

It is often the small things that can make a big difference but sometimes go unnoticed.

But Ian Williams’ achievements were broadcast for all to see when he was surprised during an assembly and announced as the Warrington Guardian’s teacher of the month.

Rather modestly he said he felt there were far more deserving teachers at the school before thanking those who nominated him.

He said: “The teaching staff here are excellent and always go that extra mile for the children.

“It is a challenging time in education but they are working hard to rise to it.”

Mr Williams from Penketh, who started working at the school in Padgate almost 25 years ago, stepped up to the role of head teacher in 2005.

Since then, he has refused to be kept out of the classroom and still teaches classes once a week.

He said: “To understand what teachers have to face and what you expect of them you have to be able to do it yourself.

“It’s very easy to demand things but you need to know the reality of what you are asking.”

Teaching was not something he set out to do but went to university to study maths and geography at Warwick University.

“I applied for a degree course and I did not realise that part of it was a teaching qualification. I didn’t read the paper work properly,” he recalled.

“But since then I have been in teaching and I have enjoyed it.”

Parent Lisa Gallop, who nominated Mr Williams, described him as a brilliant teacher who all the children respect and look up to.

She said: “He knows every child by their full name and he is always around to speak to. 

“The school wouldn't be the same without him.”

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 e-mail lauren.hirst@nqnw.co.uk.

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