A TOP-class Kidderminster headteacher has been shortlisted for a national best boss award. Franche First School headteacher Val Weddell-Hall (centre) with teacher Jane Howard and deputy headteacher Peter Bravo.

Val Weddell-Hall, of Franche First School, is among 14 nominees chosen for the prestigious Parents At Work and Britain's Best Boss title.

Mrs Weddell-Hall, who was nominated by two colleagues, joins a spectrum of bosses from building society to hospital chiefs in the ceremony next month.

The modest headteacher, who has overseen a string of successes at the school in her 17 years as boss, put her selection down to teamwork.

She said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be chosen but it is a team effort. It reflects on the magnificent teachers, governors, parents and pupils we have.

"It has been a great surprise. I wasn't aware my colleagues had nominated me. I am thrilled for myself, the school and education in general because we get a lot of knocks.

"The best benefits of the way we work are reflected in the success and positive attitude of the children and staff at Franche First, who are simply the best."

Teachers Jane Howard and Gail Evans nominated the head as an inspirational and innovative role model.

Mrs Evans said: "As a mother-of-three herself Mrs Weddell-Hall understands the pressures and needs of working parents.

"She is always extremely flexible, approachable and makes herself available because she has an open door policy."

Under the head's stewardship the school has received accolades such as the first Worcestershire school to receive a Charter Mark twice. It has also received Investors in People and School Curriculum awards.

Mrs Weddell-Hall's work was also rewarded by royalty when she attended a reception hosted by the Queen for school achievers last year.

The best boss award, whose aim is to promote a greater understanding of work-life balance by rewarding outstanding individuals, will be announced at the House of Lords on May 16.