THE deadline for entries in the South Wales Argus Gwent Schools Awards has been announced.

For Anyone still wishing to nominate an inspirational educator must do so by, no more submission will be taken after January 13.

This first annual Argus Schools Awards, in partnership with the University of South Wales (USW), is aiming to honour the tremendous work being done by primary and secondary schools across the area – and we have already had hundreds of worthy candidates entered.

We want to reward the innovation and creativity that goes into teaching every day in our primary and secondary schools across Gwent and recognise the value of the schools themselves.

Argus editor Nicole Garnon said: “We are delighted to be running these awards. I’m looking forward to seeing who our readers think worthy of an award.”

Head of school of education, early years and social work at USW, Jamie James said: “What happens in the classroom quite literally transforms lives. As Gwent’s university, we’re working with schools and colleges to give our young people the very best teaching and experience of education.

“We’re playing our part by bringing our teacher training together in our Newport campus with early years, social work, therapies, and the related professional disciplines that teachers work with in the real world.

“It’s thriving, and by partnering with schools and councils to give our teachers the best facilities and professional opportunities, we’re working across Gwent to drive up standards. The Argus’ Gwent School Awards initiative celebrates the best, and we’re proud to be part of it.”

The scheme has also earned the backing of Newport City Council leader Debbie Wilcox, who said: “It is fantastic that the South Wales Argus has launched these awards to recognise the achievements of local teachers.

“We have many inspirational teachers and first-class schools in the city and I know, as a former teacher myself, that they do an amazing job despite the ever-increasing demands and pressures they face.”

There are 13 categories in all and We are seeking nominations from schools, parents, pupils, the local education authority – in fact anyone who wants to highlight the work of a school, a teacher, teaching assistant or college lecturer in our 13 different categories.

We also want to see entries about schools or teachers who go above and beyond, who break down barriers and who get involved in their community.

A panel of judges will be formed to decide the winners, who will be revealed at a special presentation evening in January.

To nominate visit south walesargus.co.uk/gwent schoolsawards and just fill out the form. Entry is free.

The categories are:

Head Teacher of the Year

Primary Teacher of the Year

Secondary Teacher or the Year

FE Lecturer of the Year

Student Teacher of the Year

Teaching Assistant of the Year

Lifetime Achievement Award

Breaking Down Barriers Award

Primary School of the Year

Secondary School of the Year

Creativity and Innovation Award

Above and Beyond Award

School of the Year – presented by the University of South Wales

Normal Argus competition rules apply.