Author and humanitarian Terry Waite CBE hopes an awards scheme will generate recognition for the dedication and selflessness of school support staff and volunteers.

The Kent Teacher of the Year Awards are organised by the KM Charity Team, for whom Mr Waite is an honorary patron.

The former hostage and envoy for the archbishop of Canterbury said: “The Teacher of the Year Awards are a wonderful opportunity to say thank you to a member of school staff who has helped shape a child’s life.

“What I am particularly pleased with is that support staff and volunteers – as well as teaching staff – can receive recognition through the event.

“I do hope you consider submitting a nomination.”

The awards have separate categories for primary, secondary and further education, newly qualified teachers, support staff, volunteers and teams.

Anyone can submit nominations, and the deadline for doing so is March 1.

The judges include the University of Kent, Ashford International Hotel, Three R’s Teacher Recruitment, the University of Greenwich, Kreston Reeves, Social Enterprise Kent, Medway Youth Trust, Canterbury Christ Church University, Loop CR, Kent Sport and Physical Education, Salus, Diggerland, Kent Further Education, Kape HR, KCS, Towergate Insurance and the Education People.

Find out more at kentteacheroftheyear.co.uk.