A surprise party was held at Springside primary today after its head teacher was named the best in Scotland.

Springside head teacher Margaret Shedden received the accolade at the Scottish Education awards on Wednesday.

And delighted staff held a surprise party today, with the whole school invited, to congratulate her on the success.

Margaret Shedden was applauded for her leadership skills ahead of her win, with one nomination form stating: “Margaret has had an extremely positive impact on me. As part of the management team, she gives you confidence to undertake things out with your comfort zone.

“She is the most encouraging, supportive, caring and inspiring head teacher that I have worked with and my professional development and level of confidence in taking forward initiatives in the school would not be where it is just now without Margaret.”

Following the result, Margaret Sheddan was concratulated on Twitter, with North Ayrshire’s Head of Service for education Andrew McClelland saying:‏ “Huge congratulations to Margaret Shedden who won the HT of the year award at the #ScotEdAwards today. What a fantastic achievement for @SpringsidePS –

“Margaret is an inspirational head teacher who always puts her pupils first. Real servant leadership. Delighted!

Irvine South SNP councillor Christina Larsen said: “Absolutely delighted for Margaret, Springside Primary and all it’s pupils. I’ll pop along for a visit soon to congratulate you personally. #proud”.

Well done Margaret from all at the Irvine Times