FOR those about to embark on their journey to adult life through secondary school, an influential teacher can make all the difference.

The shortlist for this award included: Freddie Marshall from Bradford Academy, Gill Taylor from Bradford Forster Academy and Jonathan Kennedy from Belle Vue Girls Academy.

The winner of the award was Freddie Marshall and his joy at being announced was clear from his fist-pump into the air.

Mr Marshall was delighted and chuffed to be given the award.

He said: "I've really waited for a long time to find out if I'd won and I couldn't be happier."

The teacher was commended for setting up a scholars programme at Bradford Academy.

Its aim is for people of high ability to channel their aspirations, no matter where they come from.

Mr Marshall said: "When I first came to this school, I immediately had an interest in pushing the most able students in this area.

"It really struck me, at the time, the difference in aspirations between some of the really bright students here and the hard-working students here, compared to what I'd imagined to be the case at grammar schools and private schools.

"In order to give the students the best possible chance of succeeding in life, you have to challenge what they think is possible for themselves.

"It's about pushing students to greater heights, whatever background they come from.

"If you look hard enough, you find there are a hell of a lot of students who can achieve so much, if you actually find them and make them believe in themselves."

One of the programmes greatest success stories is student, Hoa, according to Mr Marshall.

He revealed that his pupil is currently applying to study at the University of Oxford.

Mr Marshall originally comes from down south, but loves Bradford for a number of reasons.

He said: "I like it because it's got a lot of character, great curry, the people are fantastic and I got a really warm welcome."

Read our other in-depth interviews with each winner below:

Or take a look at how the overall event went here...