THE Kent Messenger Group, in association with various companies and organisations across the county, has launched the Kent Teacher of the Year Awards 2005.

We are looking for your help by asking you to nominate the teacher you feel deserves special recognition for their outstanding efforts.

Nominations are open to any qualified teacher in the county who is teaching children from years R to 13.

This year, the awards will be split into two categories: Primary (years R to six) and Senior (years seven to 13).

A panel of judges will select a winner for each category in each of the 15 local authority areas in the county.

They are Ashford, Bexley, Bromley, Canterbury, Dartford, Dover, Gravesham, Maidstone, Medway, Sevenoaks, Shepway, Swale, Thanet, Tonbridge and Malling and Tunbridge Wells.

This is the third year that the Kent Messenger Group has run the awards. The closing date for nominations is Wednesday, June 8.

KM Group managing editor Mike Whiting said: "The Kent Messenger Group is delighted to be involved again with these important awards.

"We're also delighted to have the continued support of our sponsors, Lloyds TSB, Saga, KCC, North West Kent Education and Business Partnership and Cripps Harries Hall Solicitors.

"There are thousands of hard working teachers across the region and these these awards are a way of saying thank you to them for the terrific job they do. I hope that everyone - pupils, parents, colleagues, friends and family - will find time to nominate their favourite."

The overall Kent Teacher of the Year will be selected from the 30 local winners. All winners will be announced at a ceremony at County Hall, Maidstone, on Monday, July 11.

To nominate right now, click on the link below.

Nominate your Kent Teacher of the Year