PUPILS and teachers at York schools have a chance to show that they are top of the class, by getting involved in The Press's community awards scheme.

The York Community Pride Awards, which we run with City of York Council, include three awards for schools and we want to hear your nominations.

We have awards for best primary school project, best secondary school or higher education project, and teacher of the year and are looking for people to put forward their suggestions.

The first two awards are for school or higher education projects which have improved their surroundings, or the environment in general. Completed or ongoing projects are valid.

The teacher of the year title will go to someone who, through their enthusiasm and commitment, can truly inspire their pupils.

Last year's primary school prize went to children at Tang Hall Primary School, in recognition of their recycling work.

Pupils collected fruit and vegetable leftovers to make compost, which was then used on the school's flower beds and vegetable patches.

Manor School claimed the senior school prize for their project to raise skills and self-esteem in the adult community.

The school worked with City of York Council's Family Learning and Skills For Life team to involve the wider adult community in their work.

Tutors Jayne Robson and Vivienne Chapman were the brains behind one of the school's key projects - creating a large mosaic for the building's entrance and involving 23 parents in the work.

The scheme gave some of these parents a first step back into education, and some of them took their new skills on to other groups. Year Ten pupils also helped run a poetry course for adults.

If you think your school has a project worthy of being considered, we'd love to hear from you. Likewise, if you know a teacher who deserves recognition for their hard work and dedication, please get in touch.

To nominate your community heroes, fill in the entry form, remembering to include the category to which you are nomination applies, and giving reasons on no more than two sides of A4. Our judges will select three finalists in each category, and winners will be announced at an awards ceremony later this year. We also still need sponsors for our awards. For more information on sponsoring an award category, call Nigel Briggs at The Press on 01904 567168, or email nigel.briggs@ycp.co.uk

Updated: 09:00 Monday, May 01, 2006