SURREAL was the word our High School Teacher of the Year chose to describe winning one of the most popular awards of the night.

Neil Vallender from Sir Thomas Boteler High School accepted the award, sponsored by Eddie Stobart, on the condition that it was for the children he teaches.

The 38-year-old has spend his 18 years teaching and the same school and it is no surprise that he had become a firm favourite with both pupils and staff.

A nomination described him as 'shining brightly' with skills, passion and enthusiasm to make the impossible possible.

Neil's passion for his work has meant he has sacrificed time with his own family this year to run extra classes after school as well as giving up most of his Easter and May half term holidays.

He has also spent every Sunday for the past few months giving all of his students the best possible chance of passing their GCSE English exams and reach their full potential.

One parent who nominated him said her son showed little prospect of attaining a single grade at GCSE 12 months ago yet is now on target to pass- a total transformation.

Described as ‘top drawer’ and a ‘legend’, parents say his incredible efforts should be shouted from the rooftops and celebrated.

Neil said: “Surreal is the word and to hear from so many inspirational people and pupils has been incredible tonight.

“I’ve been at Boteler a long time and I stand here proud to say that it has been my heart and soul.

“The mention about family and being away from that, Boteler has become part of my family.

“I do want to thank my mum and dad, my wife for her patience and understanding, our deputy head, our head teacher who believed in me.

“This is for the kids at Boteler, you have been my heart and soul, you will continue to be my heart and soul and it’s an absolute privilege.”

Highly commended in this tough category was Emma Mitchell, from New Horizons AP Academy, for going above and beyond in her work and being a tower of strength to her students.