'Teacher is top of the class' (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

'Teacher is top of the class'

A STUDENT has nominated one of her teachers for a top award.

Diane Scott, a year 10 pupil at George Ward School, has put forward Emma Summers for the outstanding new teacher category in the 2004 Teaching Awards.

Diane said: "She is the best English teacher in the school.

"She treats us as young adults not little kids and you can have really interesting conversations with her. She is very funny and everyone in my English group thinks she's an excellent teacher."

Ms Summers, who is also deputy head of year eight, has been chosen as one of four finalists from the west for the award.

Her nomination has been supported by colleagues at all levels in the school, where the judging team will shortly visit to see her in action.

Winners will be announced at the regional awards ceremonies, in June.

Dr Pam Stoate, headteacher at The George Ward School, said: "Emma is one of a number of exceptional teachers that we have working here and we are all glad Emma has made the finals."