The efforts of individual teachers could help to lift any Ofsted gloom surrounding education in Bradford.

Sue Coe, of Mandale Middle School, Bradford, and Joanne Ramsay, of Shirley Manor Primary in Wyke, have been nominated for a prestigious education "oscar".

They are joined by Pamela Hall and Helen Jarvis - both teachers at Threshfield Primary, Skipton.

All four teachers have already won their schools at least £500 and will receive special commendations for reaching Tuesday's regional awards ceremony in Sheffield.

This is a major achievement in itself as nominees have to undergo a rigorous selection and inspection process. Teaching Awards representatives consult governors, parents, pupils and other staff to find out just how good the teachers are.

Sue Coe was nominated for the excellence in special needs teaching award by her head teacher Michael Joyce because of the hours and effort that she puts in.

"She comes in the early morning and works most evenings," he said. "She is so gentle and patient and a good listener and the children really trust her, which is very important."

Like the other nominees, Mrs Coe will win £3,500 for her school if she scoops the regional award - with an extra £20,000 if she wins at the nationals in October.

But Mandale Middle is closing in the summer under the Bradford schools reorganisation. So Mrs Coe has said she would like to see any money she wins helping to provide extra resources for children with special educational needs in the district.

"I feel a bit of a fraud really," she said. "It is marvellous when someone notices your work like this but Mandale is a wonderful school and you can't do special educational needs by yourself - it is a team effort.

"We have got 14 absolutely fantastic support staff who all deserve an award. It is a really good team that is being split up because the school is closing. It is so sad."

Head teacher at Shirley Manor Primary School Margaret Lupton said that Joanne Ramsay, whom she nominated for the primary school teacher of the year award, was "very special".

"She presents her work in a very exciting way so that her pupils are glad to be in her class," she said. "Parents are very appreciative of the help she gives. She is plain speaking, firm and fair."

Mrs Ramsay, who has been at the school since she began teaching 12 years ago, said she was shocked by the news. But she said it was nice for teachers to be recognised.

Threshfield Primary School, near Grassington, is celebrating a double success with Helen Jarvis nominated for the award for school leadership and Pamela Hall for the primary school teacher of the year award.

e-mail: william.stewart@bradford.newsquest.co.uk

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