'Oscar' honours for classroom stars

Teachers are being rewarded for classroom excellence

Teachers from all over Wales are due in Cardiff for the "teaching Oscars".

It is the first time that Welsh schools have taken part in the Teaching Awards.

They were launched two years ago to give the teaching profession some positive publicity.

However, there has been some concern at singling out "star" teachers when most schools stress a team approach.

One of those nominated this year is information technology teacher David Baugh, from Denbigh.

He admitted he would be a little embarrassed to win one of the awards but said he does see the value of the honours.

"It gives a bit of status to the teaching profession," he said.

"I hope people aren't negative because I think teaching needs a bit of a boost."

There are eight categories in the Teacher 2000 competition which range from best newcomer to lifetime achievement.

All the teachers nominated for an award have gone through a rigourous judging process, which began back in February.

This included visits to their schools by the judging panel.

The winners will pick up more than just a well-deserved pat on the back, each receiving £3,500 for their school, with specially commended teachers collecting £500 each.

The awards ceremony for the Welsh teachers will be held at Cardiff city hall.