Brimpton head nominated for Collection Pot Teacher of the Year award

A headteacher from West Berkshire has been nominated for Teacher of the Year in a national competition.

Heidi Davies from Brimpton Church of England Primary School has been nominated by her student, 11-year-old Brodie Russell, and his mother Nicola Russell.

Mrs Davies was nominated for the Collection Pot competition after going above and beyond to support her students in their musical endeavours.

In their nomination they described Mrs Davies, who is the headteacher and also teaches Year 6, as the “kindest, happiest, most caring, kind-hearted, and most sincere teacher”.

“Every morning she is the first person to greet all the children into school and waits for them in the playground no matter what the weather.

“Every single small or large step each child achieves never goes unnoticed, and she ensures every child feels good about themselves and is welcomed and feels part of her Brimpton School family.

“She goes above and beyond to ensure every child matters and feels secure, happy, safe, and included.

“She is a gem, and we are truly blessed to have her.”

A passionate musician, Mrs Davies has united pupils through song, organising choir performances that take the children far beyond the classroom.

A recent trip to the Young Voices concert at the O2 Arena in London was an unforgettable experience for many pupils.

Mrs Davies not only led rehearsals in her own time, but also spearheaded fundraising efforts to ensure every child could take part.

Brimpton is a small school of 48 pupils and over half are involved in the choir.

“It’s a real privilege to be nominated,” said Mrs Davies.

“I have dedicated every inch of my being to teaching for the past 25 years, and I feel rewarded every day by the kids, whether that is them giving me a squeeze or making me laugh.

“To be nominated is so special.

“I am proud of our school because of the amazing staff I have, superstar children, supportive parents, and interested governors.”

Collection Pot’s Teacher of the Year competition 2025 aims to celebrate the exceptional dedication of teachers, teaching assistants, support staff, and headteachers in schools across the nation.

Nominations are open until June 22 and the winner will be announced on July 4.