THERE'S just a few hours left to get in your nominations for the area's outstanding teachers, pupils and support staff in our prestigious Lancashire Telegraph Schools Awards.
The awards which recognise outstanding educational achievements in East Lancashire always attract hundreds of entries. Now it's your chance to nominate that special person who has gone that extra mile, whether it's a teaching assistant, head teacher or school pupil.
This year Blackburn firm Educational Printing Services Ltd (EPSL) is sponsoring the trophies which are handed out to the winners of the 11 categories, including a new award in 2016 for Special School Pupil of the Year.
EPSL Managing Director David Pickering said: “We are absolutely delighted to be the Trophy Sponsor for the Lancashire Telegraph Schools Awards.
“As a Blackburn based business producing quality educational materials for more than 40 years, we are extremely passionate about the community in which we live and serve.
"Supplying exercise books and resources throughout the UK, we are extremely proud to be part of such a prestigious awards ceremony."
The company, started by David's father Fred 41 years ago, now prints millions of exercise book, teaching planners and other educational items every year. Based in Glenfield Park, it employs up to 50 people during the peak season.
“We wish all the finalists the best of luck and look forward to a great night of celebration with pupils, teachers and support staff," said David.
The overall sponsor for the awards is UCLan, who will also sponsor the Lifetime Achievement Award. Other individual category sponsors include: Myerscough College, Nelson and Colne College, Key Stage, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, BAE, Alpha Digital Networks, First Class Learning, Tiny Pixles, Precious Moments Childcare and Teaching Personnel.
Email entries to educationawards@nqnw.co.uk or post them to Lancashire Telegraph Schools Awards, Editorial, Newspaper House, High Street, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB1 1HT. All entries must be received by 5pm today, Friday. All schools within the boroughs of Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, Burnley, Pendle, Rossendale and Chorley are welcome to enter.
Anyone with queries can call Francesca Winrow on 01254 298219.
Cllr Dave Harling, Blackburn with Darwen Council executive member for schools, said: “I would encourage any staff members within schools to take part because this is not just about teaching staff."