SINCE walking through the doors of Sir Thomas Boteler Church of England High School as a trainee teacher 13 years ago, Neil Vallender knew this was a place where he could make a difference.

His dedication and commitment has not gone unnoticed by his pupils – even if he does believe modestly that he is only doing his job.

To say thank you, his Year 11 English class noted down the many reasons why Mr Vallender should win the Warrington Guardian’s teacher of the month award.

So there was no doubt in the judges’ minds that Mr Vallender was deserving of the title.

Speaking to the Warrington Guardian after he was surprised with the award, he said he was shocked but ecstatic.

He said: “This is a testament to the pupils and the kind of young people we have at Sir Thomas Boteler and the attitude they have towards their learning.

“I work hard because they deserve the best opportunities in life.”
Mr Vallender, who has an English literature degree from Chester University, added: “It is one of the most rewarding jobs out there.

“It is a challenging career but the rewards far outweigh that. You never get bored.”

Described as ‘not just an amazing teacher but a friend’, it is clear that the 34-year-old, who lives in Widnes, always goes the extra mile to make sure his pupils leave school with a love of English that will last a lifetime.

He was hailed as ‘one of a kind’ and as an ‘extremely supportive and trustworthy’ teacher.
Headteacher Beverley Scott-Herron added: “We are a school that is trying to recover and this just demonstrates the level of teaching that goes on at the school.”

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