The boss of Oakwood Theme Park was on hand to present the Teacher of the Year Award to Pembroke School’s Denise Schofield at this year’s Radio Pembrokeshire Local Hero Awards.

Phil Verbinnen helped to present the award, which is sponsored by the Pembrokeshire theme park, to the drama teacher who was nominated by former student Rosie Thomas.

Denise has been teaching at Pembroke School for nearly 40 years and is set to retire in September.

“Oakwood has a close relationship with local schools and colleges providing both a fun place to visit and a great ‘outdoor classroom’ for a whole host of curriculum-related topics so we are particularly keen to support and sponsor the Teacher of the Year award,” said Phil.

“Denise’s extraordinary contribution to drama at Pembroke School for nearly 40 years is truly an amazing achievement and we’d like to add our own congratulations and wish her all the very best in her retirement - although it sounds like they will be reluctant to let her go!” he added.

Speaking after receiving her award from Phil, Denise said: “To receive such an award was an incredible privilege, especially as I am coming to the end of 39 years of teaching.

“I have very much appreciated the support of the two headteachers I have worked for and the support of their senior staff who have always valued drama and believed in what it could do for our students.

“Without doubt the most rewarding aspect of my time at Pembroke School has been the commitment and affection I have been given by our very talented students who have decided to choose drama at GCSE, AS and A level with the support of their parents.

“Their hard work and creativity have maintained very high standards of Drama at the school and maintained excellent examination results,” she added.

In nominating Denise to win the award, Rosie wrote: “She is a one of a kind woman, an inspiration to all and has helped so many of her pupils succeed in life.

“Watching the way she teaches her pupils and how they respond, has inspired me to follow my dreams of teaching drama to young individuals with learning difficulties.

“She is such a wonderful lady and she deserves more recognition and appreciation than she receives. She is more than just a teacher; she is a mentor and an inspiration to all,” she added.