I am delighted that the University of Bradford is a joint partner in the Telegraph & Argus Bradford and District Schools Awards. Education is a fundamental part of our city and district, and the university is proud of the part it plays in raising educational aspiration and developing the next generation of professionals.

The university understands the key role that teachers have in helping children reaching their full potential.

Before young people even consider coming to university, they need an appetite for learning and a passion for education.

It takes great energy, enthusiasm, skill and commitment to keep children interested in a subject and inspire them enough to want to pursue it further.

The university works very closely with a number of schools in our region, and in particular in Bradford. For many years, pupils from schools and colleges have come to the university for summer schools, taster days and events on campus which enhance their skills, confidence and education.

This commitment reaches out to teachers as well as school pupils. This year our Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Centre has opened.

It is part of an outreach programme to work with schools and colleges across Bradford and beyond.

Our STEM activity sees extensive work with schools and young people, seeking to raise interest in STEM subjects and to raise educational attainment across all subjects.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: new schools awards logos

The centre acts as a training space for school teachers, equipping them with the skills to inspire the next generation of scientists back in their own classroom.

I know there are many outstanding staff working in schools, colleges and beyond who are dedicated to helping children reach their full potential.

I look forward to finding out more about some of these staff as nominations are made, and I wish all those entering the very best of luck.

Professor Brian Cantor Vice-Chancellor, University of Bradford