An outstanding primary school teacher has been nominated as teacher of the year for this year’s Croydon Champions.

Emma Baker, from Addiscombe, received the nomination for her constant hard work at St John’s C of E Primary School in Shirley.

The much-loved reception teacher were nominated by parents Jennifer Lockett and Christine Tarrant.

The teacher, who has been at the school for 19 years, said: “I am very privileged. I always wanted to be a teacher. I have fulfilled a dream.”

Miss Lockett said when her five-year-old daughter Amy started the school she was very nervous, but Miss Baker immediately made her feel at ease with a home visit before her first day.

She said: “Miss Baker has the class running like clockwork. She is kind and funny and she provides an outstanding learning experience.”

“I am sure she gives 200 percent of her time to her job.”

Mrs Tarrant said: “Miss Baker is a fantastic reception teacher, who is adored by her students and admired by the parents. She encourages the students to be independent individuals who persevere at work and are happy, positive children at school.

“She is a teacher in a million and should be rewarded for all her hard work and dedication to the job.”

St John’s has 225 pupils and Miss Baker said because of its size it was like a big family.

She added: “I can’t see myself leaving the school. I am part of the furniture.”

Miss Baker has taught the reception class for four years.

She said: “What makes a good teacher is someone with enthusiasm and sense of humour.”