Nicole Cummins, head teacher of Brede Primary School was invited by the Prime Minister Gordon Brown to a special reception at 10 Downing Street on the recommendation of Michael Foster. This was in recognition of her efforts in making the school one of the most improved in the country.

In January Brede Primary was identified as one of the 150 most improved schools in England. Originally appointed as acting head because of challenging circumstances facing the school Nicole did such a great job resolving complex staffing and local issues that she was formally appointed headteacher.

Nicole was given the chance to explore No 10, meet the Prime Minister and mingle with other educators from across the country.

Michael Foster MP said:

“I was delighted to be able to extend the Prime Minister’s invitation to Nicole.

“Since being appointed head she has done an outstanding job. Being ranked as one of the ‘most improved’ schools is testament to her abilities as an educator.

“Headteachers are pivotal to driving up standards and fostering a positive environment for learning in their schools. Nicole can be counted amongst the top headteachers in the country and is a real credit to her school and the Brede community.”