Paula Dexter, of Blackthorn Close, who has worked at White’s Wood Lane School for just over three years, was nominated for the accolade by school business manager Rachel Ward.

Mrs Ward says Paula, a mother-of-two, pulls out all the stops in her role and is a great asset to the school.

“This school wouldn’t be the same without Paula,” said Mrs Ward.

“She is the first person parents and visitors see when they come here and she is always so bright and cheery.”

“She is always on hand to help out pupils and parents,” she added.

Paula, 38, took a pay cut to work at the school and has not looked back since.

“I wanted a change of job and saw this post advertised so I applied,” said Paula.

“I didn’t hear anything for a while and apparently my son, Tom, who used to attend here, used to bug Mrs Ward for an interview for me - which was a complete shock when I found out.”

“What really made me laugh is that when Tom brought his work home in one of the lines it said, please give my mum an interview, which totally astonished me,” added Paula.

Rachel says Paula is also a really good friend now and they always find time in the working week to catch up over a cuppa.

“I am in complete shock at receiving the Standard Rose but it is a really nice gesture to be given one,” said Paula.

“Over the years I have been here I have really got to know lots of the parents and children and I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else but at the moment I am totally speechless.”

And some of the pupils at the junior school also think Paula was deserving for the Standard Rose.

“Mrs Dexter always helps us out if we need it and she is like our second mum,” said Mitchell Robinson, 10.

l If you know someone who deserves The Standard Rose, let us know your name, who you want to nominate and why, as well as your daytime contact number.

They could be in with a chance of winning a night at the luxury Crown Hotel in Bawtry with breakfast and evening meal.

Call us on 01427 615323, or email aborrowdale@gainsboroughtoday.co.uk