SOME of her fondest memories were made during her school days so when Victoria Backhouse decided to take her career in a different direction, teaching was the only option.

But, despite only spending the past two years as a teacher, the 35-year-old has clearly made an impression on her pupils after being nominated and winning the Warrington Guardian's teacher of the month.

"I'm shocked but it's so lovely to have been nominated," said Victoria after she was surprised with the monthly award during a school assembly.

Victoria, who currently teaches year three and four pupil at St Vincent's Primary in Penketh, decided teaching was the right career move for her after her own experience in the classroom.

She said: "I always enjoyed school and loved learning new things.

"This enthusiasm for school I have always carried through life and I wanted other children to enjoy school like I did."

Prior to becoming a teacher, Victoria had spent time at home bringing up her two children.

It was these maternal instincts that helped to instil the confidence in Victoria to take up teaching as a profession.

Victoria, who previously worked at Meadowside Community Primary School for a year prior to moving to St Vincent’s Primary, added: "Becoming a mother brings out a different side to you.

"All the children at the school are just delightful and so lovely.

"The school is such a nice place to work and everyone is very happy."

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.