PARENTS and pupils from across the borough are being asked to nominate their inspiring teachers for a chance to win a prestigious award.

The Teacher of the Year award, open to both primary and secondary school teachers, recognises an outstanding teacher who has inspired their students to have a love of learning.

It is part of The Educate Awards which is inviting parents, carers and pupils to nominate a teacher who is making a real difference to their school community.

The awards, now in its sixth year, is an annual celebration which aims to showcase the brilliance within the region’s education sector and is open to all schools in the Liverpool City Region, Cheshire and Lancashire.

They cover every aspect of a school’s curriculum, teaching and staff and will culminate in the prestigious event at Liverpool Cathedral in November.

Kim O’Brien, founder of the Educate Awards, says: “The power of a great teacher is something almost all of us have experienced and can remember fondly.

“Great teachers make school an exciting, engaging place to learn and encourage children to pursue different ideas and careers.

“There are so many unsung heroes working in St Helens schools who do remarkable work on a daily basis. We want to hear about these teachers and celebrate their achievements.

“If you know an extraordinary teacher who goes above and beyond the call of duty, don’t delay and submit a nomination, it could make their year.”

Last year’s winner, Mr Martyn Dutton from Barnton Community Nursery and Primary School in Northwich, was nominated by a parent of one of his pupils who has epilepsy and was includes in all activities.

Judges commented that he was the ‘perfect example of a teacher going above and beyond the call of duty’.

Passionate, encouraging, dedicated and amazing are all words which have been used to describe past winners, and this year the judges are looking for nothing less.

Nominations for the coveted prize are now open and close on Sunday, June 25 and can be made by anyone with links to a school.

This includes pupils, parents, headteachers, fellow teachers and governors.

Entries are completely free and can be made online at educateawards.co.uk.