Nominations are rolling in for the Worcestershire Education Awards.

The official launch event, held at the University of Worcester Arena on Thursday, saw sponsors and past winners celebrate the launch of the awards which highlight the dedication and hard work of educators across the county.

This is the third year the Worcester News has run the awards, in partnership with the University of Worcester, where schools, nurseries, colleges and individual staff can be nominated to win.

Mike Foster, chief executive at Energy and Utilities Alliance, a sponsor of the awards. said: “We are recognising the work of teachers, heads, support staff – all those who contribute towards a successful school. And equally, we also recognise that as an industry we need these good schools to equip young people with the skills that will enable them to become the high-calibre workforce of the future.”

Caroline Hope, marketing manager at Andrew Grant, another sponsor, added: “We do a lot of work with students from the university and we want to support them and the community. The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow. If there is something we can do to help them, we are on board.”

Thomas Weaver, who was a judge in the Early Years Education award cetegory last year, said: “From having been a judge last year, it is all about celebrating the goodwill stories that come through. It is an up-lifting experience to have read all the nominations.”

David Green, vice chancellor of the university, said: “The university works actively in partnership with over 500 schools. It is natural for us to sponsor these awards that are doing such a good job to recognise outstanding teaching. We believe education is crucial for every individual's future.”

Anyone can nominate an individual or an organisation for a Worcestershire Education Award.

There are 12 categories:

  • Early Years Education Award
  • Community Involvement Award
  • Primary / Middle School of the Year
  • Head Teacher / Principal of the Year
  • Secondary School of the Year
  • Teacher / Lecturer of the Yea
  • College, or Post-18 Education & Training Provider
  • Newcomer of the Year
  • Special Education Needs (SENCO) Award
  • Support Staff of the Year
  • Independent School of the Year
  • Unsung Hero.

The deadline for nominations is April 18.

Finalists are chosen by a panel of judges and winners are announced during an awards ceremony at the University Arena on June 20.

Nominate here.