Sponsored by Barclays

Winner: New Earswick Primary SchoolFinalists: Park Grove Primary School and St Barnabas CE Primary School
When it comes to cool schools, New Earswick Primary takes some beating.

The innovation, inspiration and general enthusiasm at the school are a joy to behold.

Behind many of the school's projects is deputy head teacher Sally Wadsworth, who joined New Earswick just over two years ago.

Since her arrival, Sally, 32, has introduced a series of exciting ventures. A Healthy School Week was launched, to focus on good diet and exercise. She also formed a Healthy School Task Group, and their work this year culminated in a Citizenship Week, which included pupils visiting Red Lodge retirement home, in York, to entertain residents and work.

A version of popular TV show The Apprentice also helped encourage good health in a fun manner, while also raising money for The Press Guardian Angels appeal.

The pupils sourced free food from local businesses, and came up with their own marketing and stalls, complete with special offers.

Many children also thought up innovative ideas such as pick'n'mix fruit, or fruit kebabs.

Sally said: "The children were given the idea and they absolutely took it on board, and it just sailed away."

While Sally collected the award at Thursday's ceremony, most of the school did not find out until the following day.

Sally said: "Everyone is absolutely delighted. We announced it at our harvest festival with parents there, and Steve Bell from Barclays came and presented it again.

The children were delighted, as were the parents.

"One of the parents commented that there's a real buzz about New Earswick Primary School. It's so alive and active.

"We really are privileged to do the work we do in our jobs, and to be teachers."