Castle Community College teacher Kate Hayes-Watkins has been awarded the accolade of Best Teacher in Deal and Dover.

Mrs Hayes-Watkins, who set up the performing arts department at the school more than 10 years ago, attended the Kent Teacher of the Year awards at Hempstead House Hotel in Sittingbourne on Wednesday evening.

She said: “It’s really great to know you have made an impact. It is great for the school, as it is has allowed me to offer these opportunities to the students.”

News of her award took some time to sink in. She added: “I have been told that people in and out of school nominated me.

“A big thank you to those people, I will wear my accolade with great pride!”

Mrs Hayes-Watkins believes enthusiasm and knowledge is key to keeping things interesting in the classroom and it would seem her pupils agree.

Year 10 pupil Rosie Robson said: “Mrs Hayes-Watkins is the best teacher.”