The achievements of top teaching staff from around the county have been celebrated at the Kent Teacher of the Year awards.

Finalists attended a special presentation evening at Hempstead House Country House Hotel and Spa in Bapchild.

The awards were organised by the KM Charity Team in partnership with the KM Group and people were asked to nominate the county's top teachers.

There were more than 200 nominations for categories that included newly qualified teacher, primary, secondary, science teacher and a new team award.

Simon Dolby from the KM Charity Team said the event celebrates excellence and achievement in teaching, which is essential for the good of society.

"Sound teaching can make a huge difference to a child’s personal development, especially to their confidence and self esteem," he added.

"It helps create well-rounded individuals who in turn give back to their community.

"The teachers and support staff recognised by these awards share passion, dedication and commitment to their vocation, they graft hard and give far beyond the call of duty."

KCC cabinet member for education, learning and skills, Sarah Hohler, said: "Kent is blessed with fantastic teachers and it is wonderful to have an occasion such as this to celebrate their achievements.

"I would like to thank the KM Charity Team, KM Group and the event sponsors for providing an opportunity to showcase the excellent work taking place in our schools to the benefit of the county's children and young people."

Mr Dolby said they were grateful to all of the sponsors, Denne, Kent County Council, Canterbury Christ Church University, Star Lesson, Network & Cabling Solutions, Hempstead House Hotel, Sittingbourne, Independent Music Productions and Southern Educational Leadership Trust.

The overall Kent winners

Head teacher: Heather Walding, Chattenden Primary School, Rochester.

Primary school teacher: Nicky Scott-Roberts, Pilgrims’ Way Primary School and Nursery, Canterbury.

Secondary school teacher: Sally Daniells, Skinners Kent Academy, Tunbridge Wells.

Newly qualified teacher: Jordan Kenison, Brompton Academy, Gillingham.

Science and technology teacher: Eoghain O’Keefe, Isle of Seppey Academy, Minster-on-sea.

Team award: Colin Leeke and Alex Finch, the ICT department at St George’s Secondary School, Gravesend.