THE Thurrock Education Awards will return in November for its third year, following the success of the last two year's events.

The event will be hosted at the Backstage Centre at the High House Production Park in Purfleet and aims to showcase the great and the good of education in the borough.

Last years’ awards were the biggest yet, with over 250 nominations and winners.

In its third year, the awards are open to nominations from parents, colleagues working within schools or academies, early years settings such as nurseries and pre-schools and from children.

Categories include aspiring leader, teacher of the year and outstanding early years practitioner.

Councillor James Halden, Portfolio Holder for Education said: “The Thurrock Education Awards are an important part of how we recognise the dedication and achievement of the staff who work in our schools and early years settings.

“Having presented at the 2015 awards and during my time as Chair of Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, I have seen first-hand how high the standard is in Thurrock for teaching, leadership and innovation.

“I’m calling on parents, colleagues, pupils and anyone within the education community to nominate those people you feel should be celebrated for going the extra mile.

"Education is of highest importance in ensuring our young people have the best possible start in life.”

The winners will be announced an awards event at the Backstage Centre, High House Production Park on Friday November 18.

Categories which can be nominated on are:

1. Outstanding Early Years Practitioner of the Year

2. Outstanding New Teacher of the Year

3. Aspiring Leader

4. Creative Teaching and Learning

5. Education Support

6. Excellence in English and/or Mathematics

7. Excellence in Science and Technologies

8. Inspiring Career Opportunity

9. Governing Body of the Year

10. Teacher of the Year in Primary Education

11. Teacher of the Year in Secondary Education or Post 16 Provision

12. Teacher of the Year in a Special School or Alternative Provision

13. Head Teacher of the Year in Primary Education

14. Head Teacher of the Year in Secondary Education, Special Education, Alternative Provision or Post 16 Provision

For more information about the categories and to make a nomination, please visit thurrock.gov.uk/education-awards The deadline for submissions is Monday 3 October and you join the conversation on Twitter using #ThurrockEA2016.