A TEACHER at Benton Park High School - acting Assistant Headteacher Matthew Marsh - has been awarded Teacher of the Year at the Heart (Yorkshire) Radio Awards 2024.

The awards, which were given out in a ceremony at Headingley Stadium on September 26, celebrate Yorkshire people who have done quite simply amazing things, making Yorkshire proud.

The Teacher of the Year category is awarded to a teacher who has made a real difference to the lives of their students.

Mr Marsh was nominated by parent Fiona Bishop, whose son Max attends Benton Park School in Rawdon.

Max lost his dad in May after a long, terminal illness - just before his GCSE exams began. Mr Marsh was central to helping Max through this very difficult period.

Nominating Mr Marsh Fiona said: "This year Mr Marsh has supported my son during his year 11 journey with compassion, empathy and encouragement. His dad had a terminal illness and sadly passed away six days before his first GCSE exam. I had kept Mr Marsh up to date during this very difficult time and he was always there to support both of us. With very little time to plan Max's exam path Mr Marsh was there to support, advise and guide him through this extremely stressful time. He took complete control of the situation and was there to support when needed. He went above and beyond checking in regularly with me throughout the exam timetable and letting me know how Max was when in school. My daughter is due to start high school in September and he has made every effort to ensure that this transition is as smooth as possible under these difficult circumstances. He also shows a genuine interest in their general wellbeing and interests outside of school. Mr Marsh is one in a million and a valuable asset to Benton Park School."

Headteacher of Benton Park School Nik Skilton, said: "Mr Marsh is a credit to Benton Park School. We are extremely lucky to have staff who go above and beyond to support the needs of our students. Mr Marsh embodies our school values, and we are really proud that his work has been acknowledged through this award."