A HARD-WORKING supply teacher has been recognised for his commitment to teaching.

Alex Relph, aged 23, was praised for his dedication after he was recommended for the award by senior leaders at Chapelford Village Primary School as part of National Supply Teacher Week.

Deputy head teacher Mel Adams said: “Alex has gone above and beyond this year while covering year five.

“He works long hours, never complains and is a lovely presence around the children.

“The children respect him and enjoy him being in class.”

National Supply Teacher week takes place on the third week of June and is a chance for agencies, schools and other teachers to recognise the hard work that supply teachers do.

Education recruitment agency, Academics Limited, have spent the week celebrating these achievements.

Zoe Allen, manager at Academics, said: “Supply teachers are sometimes the forgotten heroes.

“They are called on at very short notice – often to cover a class or school they have never been in before.”

Speaking after the award presentation, Alex, who qualified with the school direct programme at Liverpool Hope University last year, said he was surprised and amazed to be nominated.

He said: “

Alex said: “I have never received anything like this before.

“I’m really pleased that I have made an impact and that it has been recognised.”