Teacher at tiny primary school nominated for Teacher of the Year after fundraising to take students to sing at O2
From morning playground hellos to leading her choir to the O2, Mrs. Davies does it all. Nominated by a proud pupil and parent, this headteacher has shown that in a tiny school, big things really can happen.
Mrs. Davies from Brimpton Church of England Primary School has been nominated by her student 11-year-old Brodie Russell and his mum Nicola Russell.
In their nomination they described Mrs Davies, who is the headteacher and also teaches year 6, as the “kindest, happiest, caring, kind-hearted and most sincere teacher” and detailed how “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.”
A passionate music advocate, Mrs. Davies has united pupils through song, organising choir performances that take the children far beyond the classroom – including a recent unforgettable appearance at the Young Voices concert at the O2 Arena in London. She 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 of which over half are involved in the choir.
“She has brought all the children close together through her love of music and takes them all over the country in her own time to sing. Every single small or large step each child achieves never goes unnoticed and she ensures every child feels good about themselves and are welcomed and feel 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.” Said Nicola.
Upon finding out she had been nominated Mrs Davies said: “It’s a real privilege to be nominated, anyone involved in education, especially teaching, knows it becomes your whole life. 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.”
Whether it’s organising once-in-a-lifetime trips or simply making sure every child feels seen, Mrs. Davies puts her whole heart into Brimpton — and that’s what makes her a Teacher of the Year 2025 finalist.
What happens next?
The Teacher of the Year 2025 winner will be announced on 4 July, live on Fun Kids Breakfast with George.
We’ll be sharing each nominee’s story across our social channels in the run-up to the big reveal.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to keep up with the countdown.
Want to see who else made the shortlist? Meet all the amazing finalists here.
And if you’ve got a teacher to thank before term ends, you can still create a Collection Pot today, the easy way to chip in together.