A DEDICATED city teaching assistant has been nominated for a prestigious prize in the 2018 Worcestershire Education Awards.

The awards, organised by the Worcester News in partnership with the University of Worcester, showcase those that inspire children and older students.

Angela Wood, a high level teaching assistant at Newbridge Short Stay School in Midland Road, has been put forward for the Unsung Hero Award in recognition of her outstanding personality, enthusiastic approach and ability to go the extra mile.

Ms Wood is also the deputy designated safeguarding lead at the school.

Speaking of the nomination, she said: “I am surprised - I am surprised because I think everyone here is an ‘unsung hero’. My job is very rewarding.

“I would be quite honoured if I won. We are part of a team - every person who works here is concerned with the well-being of our students and ensuring that they are kept safe.”

The short-stay school that caters for secondary-aged pupils who have been permanently excluded from other schools, has 54 on a roll.

It is part of the Advance Trust, with Vale of Evesham School, Kingfisher School and Riversides School.

The school became an academy in April 2014.

All pupils have special educational needs and/or disabilities, with social, emotional and mental health identified as their primary school support need.

To find out more about Newbridge Short Stay School, visit newbridgeschool.org or call 01905 763580.

To view the categories and to nominate an organisation or group, go to worcesternews.co.uk/weawards2018.

There are still categories available to sponsor. Entries close on Friday April 20.