Victoria is off to Egypt as Teacher of the Year

Victoria Reynolds, a Year 2 teacher at Oliver Tomkins Infant School, was today crowned the winner of the competition, the Hilton Hotel, Swindon, after winning the votes of parents and pupils from across the town.

The 24-year-old, who lives in Moredon, was one of 30 teachers nominated in this years competition to be in with a chance to win the coveted North African break and said she was shocked to have come out on top.

"I couldn't quite believe it, to be honest," she said.

"It was just a bit of a shock but I was very honoured to have been nominated by Grace Skull."

This year the competition will send Victoria on an all inclusive week-long holiday to the Hilton Taba Resort in, Egypt with an extra £500 towards flights.

She will be able to take in breathtaking Red Sea views from the Hilton Taba Resort & Nelson Village, situated just 10 kilometres from Eilat, overlooking three countries — Jordan, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.

She will be able to wander down the golden sands of the private beach or get active at the Aqua Sports Center offering fun activities like water-skiing and sailing.

She will also be able to take up opportunities to explore the pristine coral reefs on a scuba dive, take a snorkelling excursion or simply relax at the pool complex with a fruity cocktail from Pirates Bar.

Victoria already has plans on how to spend her summer holidays, and doesn't yet know when she will take advantage of the prize.

"I'm going to Lanzarotte," she said.

"I have no idea when I'm going to take it.

"I'm going to have a long sleep to celebrate I think after the long term."

Her nominator, Grace, said she chose Victoria for her caring and humourous nature and for letting the children play games.

Victoria said: "I think it was the perseverance of Grace and her mum letting everyone know to vote which meant I won.

"The difference I make is probably thanks to all the support I have from the head teacher."