BRADFORD College is celebrating being shortlisted for two top teaching awards recognising excellence in education.

Its Early Years, Health and Care Department and the Catering, Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Department have been announced as finalists in

The Pearson Teaching Awards, billed as the teachers' Oscars.

Both departments have been recognised for their tutors and lecturers who have helped students aim high and achieve their potential, often meeting and overcoming considerable challenges along the way.

The finalists were selected from thousands of nominations from across the UK and the teams join a list of 67 exceptional teachers who are the Teaching Awards stars of the education profession for 2015.

The Teaching Awards offers everyone the opportunity to say thank you to the teacher who has helped them most, said Rod Bristow, President of Pearson UK.

Programme Manager for the College's Hospitality and Travel department Hayley Lomas said: "We are delighted to have been shortlisted for this award. We have a very passionate and dedicated team of staff who are extremely enthusiastic about their subject. They provide committed support to all our students, current, future and past.

"Our staff always work hard to ensure that every student achieves their full potential."

Wesley McGlinchey who is Programme Manager for Early Years, Health and Care added: "I am proud and delighted that that team have been shortlisted for this award. It recognises the hard work of the staff and their dedication and commitment to our students and the local community. The recognition also builds on the Grade 1 Outstanding Ofsted Inspection outcome last September."

Oscar-winning actress Emma Thompson, who is president of the Teaching Awards, said: “I am genuinely proud and honoured to be the President of the Teaching Awards. I owe so much of what I’ve done to my fantastic teachers at school and university and it is exciting to join in celebrating what is probably the most important profession of them all."

Mr Bristow added: "Supporting the Pearson Teaching Awards gives us a unique opportunity to champion exceptional teaching professionals across the UK. Pearson has long held lifelong learning to be at the heart of all its business.

"All young people deserve the very best chance to make progress in their lives through education. That is why we believe it’s vital to recognise inspirational teachers, for their commitment to teaching and learning and improving the life chances of the next generation."

The finalists will find out if they have received the awards on Thank a Teacher Day, June 12.

Winners will then be invited to the star-studded UK final to be held at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, in October 2015.