The headteacher at a federation of small Suffolk schools has been left “overawed” after receiving a national award recognising her work as a “driving force” behind the partnership.

Val Jones, who retires from Charsfield and Dennington primary schools this week, won the Community Education Award for Community Champion of the Year.

She said she was “thrilled” to receive it.

“I’m overawed to think that this was national award and I should be the winner,” she added.

“Federating the schools was a real challenge but very worthwhile as the staff and children benefit from the opportunities that the two schools can offer together.”

Organisers of the award, which is affiliated with the The Police Community Clubs of Great Britain, said Mrs Jones had been recognised as the “driving force” behind the school’s federation since 2014.

“Constantly innovating, Val has been thoroughly dedicated to creating a strong partnership between the schools, making sure to eradicate the insular culture that so often can be found in small village schools,” a spokesman added.

“She has worked tirelessly, and has built a culture of support and learning for all of the children in Suffolk villages.

“Through the federation, teachers have been up skilled to be able to lead subjects such as French, art, geography, history and computing. Meaning more engagement and far better learning opportunities for the students. The far reaching benefit of the two school partnership has been huge; meaning that children are able to access opportunities for trips, visits and exciting learning opportunities that would just not be possible for one school to do.”