AN AWARDS ceremony celebrating teachers and schools has launched in Oldham.

The Educate Awards, founded by Kim O’Brien in 2012, recognise the work of schools and colleges which are delivering outstanding education and helping students achieve their full potential.

Since launching in Liverpool in 2012, the awards has grown rapidly, and is now expanding to Greater Manchester.

Kim O’Brien said: “We have received so many messages from schools across Greater Manchester who are keen to be involved in the awards. Expanding our reach allows us to recognise yet more outstanding practice and shine a spotlight on the North West as a hotspot for innovative education.”

In total there are 21 award categories, from Teacher of the Year, Career Aspiration, School Support Star of the Year and Outstanding Commitment to Sport.

Nominations are now open for the Educate Awards 2018, in association with Copyrite Systems and Ricoh.

Kim added: “The Educate Awards is an important platform to celebrate education and give those working in schools who transform learning, the credit they deserve.

“We would love to hear about the teachers, support staff and exciting projects happening in schools in Oldham.

“We are delighted to launch the call for entries for 2018 and are looking forward to celebrating another year of outstanding education in the North West.”

The awards are free to enter and open to all government funded and independent private educational establishments, including primary, secondary, further education providers and special needs schools in the Liverpool City Region, Cheshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester.

The deadline for entries is midnight on Sunday, June 24. The shortlist will be announced prior to the awards ceremony and the winners will be revealed on November 16 at Liverpool Cathedral.

For further information including full details of how to enter, please visit www.educateawards.co.uk