THE name of Frances Lysyj kept coming up in the Primary School Head of the Year Award category.

This popular headteacher had the most nominations in this award sponsored by Synergy Dental Clinic.

Mrs Lysyj is the head of St Thomas of Canterbury RC Primary School in Heaton, where according to those who put her forward for the accolade, "has dedicated the last 40 years of her life" to the school.

Having attended as a pupil, she joined the staff in 1974 and during that time she has been class teacher, a special education needs co-ordinator, deputy head and headteacher — illustrating her dedication to the school.

Fondly described as the Steven Gerrard of the school, her commitment and dedication to the children and the community is said to be "unrivalled" — "loyal, talented and leads by example".

Her mantra is "if it's not in the best interests of the children —we don't do it".

Under her leadership, Ofsted found that: "Governors, senior leaders and teachers are united in their vision for the school. They are ambitious for the pupils. They know the school’s strengths and areas for development very well."

It was marked good by school inspectors.

"Inspectors added: "Pupils’ achieve well at all key stages. The pupils make good progress and achieve standards by the end of Year 6 that are above average in English and mathematics.

"Pupils behave well in lessons and around the school and have positive attitudes to learning."

Mrs Lysyj, who lives in the parish, said: "I saw my name in the paper and was very surprised.

"It was a shock at first, but feel very proud that people care enough to nominate me.

"I work alongside children who I have taught and they come back as teachers, it is a very special school."

She added: "This school has been part of my life since I was five-years-old and I want the children to have that sense of belonging that I had when I was here."