An inspirational teacher who has changed the lives of her students has been nominated for a Croydon Champions award for being the “perfect role model”.

Heather Roberts, a geography teacher at Thomas More Catholic School, has been described by one of her pupils as an excellent teacher who makes a positive impact on her students’ lives.

The 49-year-old, who has been teaching at the school for more than 20 years, was flattered when she discovered she had been nominated for the award.

She said: “Its quite flattering, I knew nothing about it.

“I really enjoy teaching and passing on the passion I have for my subject to my pupils.

“Geography is really relevant to our world today, especially with issues about the environment.”

She was nominated by Robert Murray, the head boy of Thomas More Catholic School.

She said: “I must have really fired him up.

“He said he wants to be a geography teacher and replace me when I leave here.”

Robert said: “She has had a special influence on my life, because when she first taught me I was not the best of pupils and I did not want to do anything.

“Now, because of her guidance, help and belief in me, pushing me to my best potential, I am now in my final year after passing my GCSEs.

“I am on my way to passing my A-levels and am going to Plymouth University, where I hope to become a Geography teacher.

“She is such a good teacher because she pays attention to all of her pupils.

“From the very first lesson she gets to know all of your names and she assesses your strengths and weaknesses.

“Pupils that she taught ten years ago still come and see her.

“I am not the first person this amazing teacher has changed.

“She should be a Croydon Champion because she is an excellent teacher, a perfect role model and also makes a huge positive impact on her student’s lives.”

• The Croydon Guardian wants to hear about the outstanding people in our borough who make a difference to the people around them.

Each week we will feature on of the nominees in our paper.

At the end of the year there will be a special award ceremony where the winners will be announced and prizes presented.

Do you know someone who deserves some recognition?

Nominate them for a Croydon Champions award.