Thurrock Council will once again be celebrating the amazing work and achievements of colleagues in education this November.

Nominations for this year's awards open at 10am tomorrow and can be submitted across 11 categories that recognise the work of individuals and teams at all levels.

Award categories for the 2019 Thurrock Education Awards are:

Excellence in early years education

Newcomer of the year

Teaching and school support of the year

Excellence in English or science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM)

Opportunities in skills development

Excellence in creative arts or culture

Mental health and well-being champion

Teacher of the year primary

Teacher of the year secondary

Education leader of the year

Unsung hero

James Halden, portfolio holder for education and health, said: "Returning for its sixth year, the Thurrock Education Awards recognise the outstanding contributions of colleagues in education, including those who work in early years settings, schools, academies and post-16 provision.

"I would like to thank the local businesses that are sponsoring the event and making it possible: DP World London Gateway, Greenergy, Impulse Leisure, Cruise and Maritime Voyages, Strategy Education, ALM Training Services, High House Production Park, Palmers Solicitors, Kingston Smith, Athene Communications, HW Wilson Ltd, Eternity Events and Port of Tilbury.

"I look forward to the excitement that the education awards brings to the borough. Please take a few minutes to make your nomination, whether it’s a teacher, head teacher, member of support staff, caretaker, governor, trust or team (to name a few). I wish everyone who is nominated the best of luck."

Nominations will close at midnight on Sunday 6 October 2019, with the awards ceremony being held in November 2019.

For more information about the Education Award categories and to make a nomination, go to: www.thurrock.gov.uk/education-awards