A pair of teachers have won their way through to the national finals of a prestigious awards ceremony.

Rowena Simmons, of Stanway School, Colchester, and Judy Hilton, of Little Waltham Primary, Chelmsford, were honoured at this year's Teaching Awards.

The award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School went to Mrs Hilton, while Mrs Simmons scooped the BT Award for the Most Creative Use of IT.

Mrs Simmons said: "I am really excited. It was a big, big surprise and I am looking forward to the national finals.

"It means an awful lot. I really believe IT is the way forward, and to be creative motivates pupils. I teach English and to see their motivation is great."

Stanway School teacher James Mitchell gained a special commendation as an Outstanding New Teacher.

The East's most inspiring and remarkable headteachers, teachers and teaching assistants were honoured with silver Teaching Awards plates in recognition of their outstanding work in their school communities.

Fifteen headteachers, teachers and teaching assistants from the region each received a prize package worth more than £3,000 for their school, including a £2,000 cash grant and an ICT package worth in excess of £1,000.

Winners were also granted a £500 professional bursary from the Department for Education and Skills to spend on their continuing professional development.

In all, 13 ceremonies are taking place across England, Wales and Northern Ireland this month and each regional winner will be invited to attend the Teaching Awards 2003 national ceremony on October 26.

Published Tuesday, June 24, 2003

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