THE chair of governors at Cottingley Village Primary School said her daughters were “lucky to be” in a class with Michelle Singh.

Ms Singh has worked at the school for a number of years, and is also a staff governor.

Joanne Reynard, chair of governors, said: “Over the years I have seen and heard the relationships and bond she has but other staff but moreover the pupils at our school, both of my girls are lucky to be in the classes she supports.

“She is always smiling, willing to go the extra mile and will do everything she can to improve the children’s day and education.

“If you’re having a bad day she’s always the one to pat you on the back and cheer you up.

“Michelle adds the icing to any class that she supports and the pupils she supports go from strength to strength when she works with them.

“She is loved by pupils, staff and parents and I’ve never heard anything but positive feedback about her.

“She would be embarrassed by this nomination as she believes she is just doing her job but as a mother and governor I know she is exceptional.”

When she found out she had been shortlisted, Ms Singh said she “burst into tears”.

“It was an absolute pleasure,” she said, “I couldn’t stop crying.”