Education awards judge urges readers to celebrate schools and staff

ONE of the judges of the Daily Echo Education Awards 2017 is urging readers to celebrate schools, teachers and educational support staff by submitting an entry.

With 11 categories from best newcomer to lifetime achievement award, there are plenty of ways to show off your school and teachers, with the winners celebrated in a glittering awards ceremony in March 2017 at the Grand Harbour hotel.

Councillor Peter Edgar, executive member for education at Hampshire County Council, said: “I am passionate about education and I am so proud of the work that goes on in schools to give our future – the children of today – a high standard of education.

“I am absolutely delighted to be joining the judging panel for the Daily Echo’s Education Awards 2017.

"As a former teacher myself, I am acutely aware of the enormous challenges of teaching but also the great rewards and sense of fulfilment educating young people can bring.

“In my view, an innovative and inspirational teacher can literally change lives for some young people.

"Hardworking teachers like that should be put in the spotlight of recognition.

"However, I am equally conscious that it takes more than good teachers to make a good school and it is just as important to recognise support staff, volunteers, including parents who help in a variety of ways and, of course, school governors who also give their time freely to be a critical friend of the school.

"I look forward to considering the nominations.”

The deadline for nominations is Friday, February 3, after which a panel of judges will create a shortlist before choosing an overall winner.

Each of the 11 categories will have a shortlist of three people who will then be invited to the ceremony along with a guest.

The ceremony will take place on March 23 next year.