A TEACHER who "makes learning fun" has been nominated for a prize in The Press's awards scheme.

Helen Bartle, of Park Grove Primary School, York, was put forward in our Teacher Of The Year category.

Miss Bartle, 29, of Farlington, near Stillington, was nominated by one of her Year 6 pupils, Beth Crisp, of Princess Drive, off Boroughbridge Road, York.

Beth, 11, wrote: "About six months ago, I moved house, and where I moved to was about three miles away from my school. So it would be a pretty long journey to Park Grove.

"I was all set to move schools. However, the reason why I didn't was my teacher!

"Miss Bartle is my favourite, and always will be my favourite teacher! She makes learning fun and I enjoy each and every lesson because of her."

Beth said: "She always praises and is never critical, and this makes me want to try even harder."

Miss Bartle, who has been teaching for eight years, but has only worked at Park Grove since September, said she was honoured to be nominated for the title.

She said: "I'm very chuffed. Beth had not mentioned it, so it's a big surprise."

She said: "Beth's a lovely, outgoing person to teach - very happy and enthusiastic. I would be very touched if I won the award."

If you know a teacher who you think deserves an award, please fill in the form and send it to the address given.

Meanwhile, The Press is delighted to welcome another new sponsor to the campaign. Barclays Bank in Parliament Street, York, has agreed to sponsor the Best Primary School Project category in our awards.

Branch manager Steve Bell said: "Barclays is committed to communities and we are really excited to be involved with the awards, which we hope will build on the relationship formed last year through working with North Yorkshire County Caterers as part of the York Festival of Food and Drink."

Do you know of an inspirational teacher you think deserves an award? We are still looking for more nominations in this and other categories, and for more sponsors for awards.

To nominate your community heroes, fill in the entry form, remembering to include the category to which your 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.

For more information on sponsoring an award category, phone Nigel Briggs at The Press on 01904 567168, or email nigel.briggs@ycp.co.uk