A HEADTEACHER has found himself top of the class by receiving recognition at a prestigious education ceremony.Combs Middle School's Ian Crissell has been given a special commendation for his work to integrate the school into the community of Stowmarket.

A HEADTEACHER has found himself top of the class by receiving recognition at a prestigious education ceremony.

Combs Middle School's Ian Crissell has been given a special commendation for his work to integrate the school into the community of Stowmarket.

The accolade was handed over at the Teaching Award Trust's ceremony for the East of England, held in Norwich and attended by Charles Clarke MP, secretary of state for education and skills.

Mr Crissell, a teacher at the school for 28 years, said: "This job has changed a lot over the years but the quality time in the classroom is still what I thrive on.

"Helping and supporting children is why all good teachers come into the job and recognition like this is just a bonus.

"I've always thought it is important to take the school and education into the community and this school as a whole does it well.

The awards have now been running for six years and commendees receive £250 for their school.

Despite missing out on an overall winner's spot, Mr Crissell is still proud of himself and the school.

"I was shocked to be nominated. I don't think of myself as any better than any other headteacher.

"But this is not just an award for myself, it's for the whole school."