WHILE teachers always work hard during the academic year, this one has had its own challenges due to the pandemic.

Whether lessons have been conducted online, or teaching staff have still been going in, recent months have been far from routine.

Today (May 20) marks Thank a Teacher Day, a national day for the country to celebrate teachers and thank them for all their efforts.

It is run by the Teaching Awards Trust, aiming to enhance the profile of the profession as well as demonstrate the positive impact of teachers and school leaders have.

It is also a chance to thank teaching assistants, school leaders and support staff for their help in educating the next generation.

Evelyn Foy, from St Ann’s Primary School in Rainhill, is pictured thanking her reception teacher Miss Ashcroft "for being absolutely wonderful for Thank A Teacher Day".