A PRIMARY school headteacher has been honoured with one of teaching's most prestigious awards.

Matthew Jessop, of Crosthwaite C of E Primary School, was one of only five headteachers in the UK to win a Pearson National Teaching Silver Award in celebration of National Thank a Teacher Day.  

Selected among thousands of nominations, Mr Jessop was honoured with the award for his outstanding commitment to changing the lives of the children he works with on a daily basis.

Sharon Hague, Senior Vice President of Schools at Pearson UK, said: "We can't underestimate the huge contribution schools make to our young people's lives and Matthew is an inspiring example of the positive impact an individual can have on pupils and communities."

Organisers said Mr Jessop worked hard to create an innovative curriculum for his staff, expressed the importance of outdoor teaching and also the need for pupils to care for animals in the classroom, including alpacas, hens, sheep ducks and even reptiles. 

The much-loved headteacher also oversaw the building of a new school hall and three extra classrooms, two of which are in the attic. He has also helped to organise several extracurricular activities with the school's 'Bee Club', producing excellent quality standard honey to sell.

"I am inspired by the devotion of teachers and the huge impact they have on the lives of the young people they tutor, support and motivate day in and day out," said Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children's Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust. 

"The valuable role they play both inside and outside the classroom has inspired generations of young people across the country to achieve their potential. 

"I am delighted to congratulate the winners of the 2023 Awards and thank them all for the amazing contributions they have made to our communities."

Following the award, Mr Jessop has now been shortlisted to win one of just 16 Gold Awards at a televised gala ceremony in London on November 25, with the winners showcased on BBC's The One Show.