“I DON'T know what normal is anymore if I am honest.”

These are the words from a headteacher who has been brilliant in this abnormal world we currently find ourselves in.

She has defied the odds on multiple occasions to ensure her school strives no matter what the circumstances.

In the early stage of her headship career too, Low Ash’s Fiona Meer is well worth the prize in this category.

Though, Simon Wade of Beckfoot and Andrew Soutar of Ashlands Primary certainly ran her close.

Ofstead, building work, and her co headteacher going on maternity leave have all joined Covid in the struggles Fiona has had to face in 2020.

She offers her mindset and how she came through tricky times.

“It feels amazing,” Fiona said.

“I was honoured and surprised that I was nominated to start with. When I found out I was in the final, I could not believe that. To win it is beyond belief.

“I suppose you just do what you have to do day in and day out. In difficult moments, it is about putting it into perspective and looking at what really matters and what doesn’t.

“I always think keep positive and always think of the children.

“I am really proud of the staff because they have done everything we have asked of them.

“My main goal throughout the pandemic has been to keep the children, staff, and school community safe and happy whilst delivering the very best education that we can.

“The last lockdown we worked so hard at suddenly going to live lessons. There were children in the classroom whilst others were being taught online which was fantastic.

“It is lovely to have all the children back and the staff now. We are doing our very best to get back to normal.”

Hopefully, that is achieved, and Fiona can be the first and last recipient of this award.