A TEACHER is top of the class with her students.

Rachel Lasham, from Westhoughton, has been recognised for the care she provides her students at Abbey College in Manchester.

The head of lower sixth was awarded the prestigious Alpha Plus Group Innovation Award for the welfare and pastoral care she offers to students. The award was jointly won by her and the assistant Head of Lower Sixth Mike Johnson for their ‘Success in the Sixth Form’ programme.

They were recognised at an event held in London.

Through a programme students develop skills which prepare them for future study and the world of work, as well as an understanding of the importance of teamwork and positive relationships.

Ms Lasham said: "Mike and I are thrilled that our hard work has been recognised. We have been very successful in helping the students with the transition without the pressure of having to adapt by themselves. It has received a great deal of positive feedback and we are pleased to be able to help student development.

"The transition from school GCSE to A-Level is a difficult one which is why we run the programme.

"The students only have the summer holidays to prepare but in terms of skills required to be successful in sixth form, the difference is very wide. They are often not ready for the more adult world of independence and responsibility which is why bridging the gap is the main objective of our initiative."