A LOCAL MP has paid tribute to teachers across his constituency, ahead of Thank a Teacher day this week.

Craig Whittaker (pictured), MP for Calder Valley, praised teachers whose hard work means that more children are gaining the skills and knowledge they need to get on in life.

The day is an annual opportunity to celebrate the huge difference teachers make to their students’ lives.

He said: “An inspirational teacher has a profound effect – not only on students’ academic achievements, but on their self-confidence and ambition, too.

“There can be no great schools without great teachers and I am consistently been struck by the passion and dedication of teachers working in schools across Calder Valley – ensuring that all children can fulfil their potential.”

A total of 22 more schools in Calder Valley are rated good or outstanding, compared to 2010.