A TEACHER at South Cheshire College is in the running to be named one of Britain's 'classroom heroes' for 2017.

Shane Guildford will attend the prestigious UK grand finale of the Pearson Teaching Awards on Sunday, where he will find out if he has won a Gold Plato Award.

He was nominated for the accolade by pupils, parents and colleagues at the college.

The nomination follows Shane's Silver Teaching Award earlier this year for his exceptional contribution to teaching.

A spokesman at South Cheshire College said: "Shane is a leader in disseminating good practice use of technology across the college.

"Shane innovatively uses technology to inspire and engage his learners. Through this creativity, he ensures that learners are given the best opportunity to progress both in and outside the classroom environment.

"His drive and desire to give his learners the most fantastic learning experience is truly inspirational.

"Shane has extremely high standards and this has been reflected in his retention and continual course success."

The Pearson Teaching Awards is an annual celebration of exceptional teachers and teaching.

Founded in 1998 by Lord Puttnam, they recognise the life-changing impact of an inspirational teacher on the lives of the young people they teach.

Children's author Michael Morpurgo is president of the Pearson's Teaching Awards.

He said: "Teachers are the quiet heroes. By telling their stories, by highlighting their skill and dedication, we can do some justice to them and to the whole profession.

"Through the Teaching Awards, we hope to enhance the reputation and value of the teachers in our lives, their importance in our society, and thus help to encourage the most talented and committed young people to become teachers."

Parents and students can give their teachers a chance of winning at next year's ceremony by visiting teachingawards.com/thank-a-teacher