TWO teachers in Kidderminster have won prestigious teaching awards.

Kerry Poole, subject leader for personal social religious education (PSRE) at Wolverley CE Secondary School, and Laura Lane, a science teacher at Baxter College, who both earned Silver Pearson Teaching Awards, were among 55 winners selected from more than 20,000 nominations.

Miss Poole and Miss Lane will now attend the UK final of the Teaching Awards at London’s Guildhall in October with a chance of receiving one of 10 gold awards.

Miss Poole said: “I’m so humbled, so elated and completely shocked. I really can’t believe it.

“The best part of being a teacher at Wolverley CE Secondary School is the ability to meet so many different children and for them to have an impact on my life.

“I learn so much from our pupils on a daily basis and I’m continually shocked and amazed at what they can do.”

Bryn Thomas, headteacher at the school, added: “Naturally we are absolutely thrilled that Kerry has been chosen to receive the award. It is very much deserved.

“A colleague put Kerry forward and described her as having a massive impact on the development of both students and teachers at the school, which is a sentiment that everyone echoes.

“Her enthusiasm, dedication, commitment and energy inspire students and colleagues and she is most definitely a deserving winner.”

Miss Lane, who teaches chemistry, biology and physics to children aged 11 to 18, said: “When I found out I had won I could not believe it. I did not expect to be nominated, let alone to win.

“It feels really, really lovely to have received this award and I am so grateful for all of the nice comments the teachers, parents and children have made.

“I try to make to make my lessons as fun and interactive as possible and I always work hard for and care about my pupils, which I think they can see.”

Dave Seddon, principal of Baxter College, said: “We are delighted that Laura’s skills as an inspirational teacher have been recognised on the national stage and we would not be at all surprised if she walked off with the Gold Award in October.”

The Pearson Teaching Awards, which were founded by Lord Puttnam in 1999, are an annual celebration of exceptional teachers.

Oscar-winning actress Emma Thompson, president of the Teaching Awards, said: “I owe so much of what I’ve done to my fantastic teachers at school and university and it is exciting to join in celebrating what is probably the most important profession of them all.”