A teacher's lot in 2003 is not a particularly happy one. At least, that is the impression the public are often given: that the classrooms and staff rooms are filled with disgruntlement as teachers struggle to cope with the many organisational and educational changes that are foisted upon them and with increasingly unruly pupils.

Fortunately, though, that is only part of the picture. While it is undoubtedly true that teachers face tough challenges on a daily basis, many of them rise to them with enthusiasm and take great satisfaction from the difference they are able to make to youngsters' lives.

Two of these have rightly been honoured by Education Bradford by being named as recipients of its Excellence in Cities awards.

David Jones, head teacher of Holybrook Primary School, is a real credit to his profession. After three years under his inspirational stewardship this school, in one of the most disadvantaged areas of Bradford, has turned around the low standards which dogged the reputation of its pre-reorganisation forerunner, Eccleshill North Middle School.

Mr Jones's philosophy should be at the core of all teaching practice. He says: "Children become 'can do' kids if they think they can be successful."

"Enthusiasm" is also cited as a key factor behind Maria Howarth's success as manager of the learning mentor scheme at Grange Technology College. Added to the other words used by Education Bradford to describe this admirable pair - "passion" and "zest" - it nicely sums up the vital qualities which are present in many members of the teaching profession but too often go unacknowledged. It is good to see them being recognised in these awards.