JUDGES in this year's Worcestershire Education Awards came together to shortlist their top nominations.

The event, held at the University of Worcester St Johns Campus yesterday, saw dignitaries, business heads and council representatives come together to select the very best teachers, schools, colleges and community groups in the county.

The judges panel includes; Worcester Sixth Form College principal Michael Kitcatt, Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership PR & communications executive Jack Barnett, Carl Arntzen, chief executive officer (CEO) at Worcester Bosch, David Flint, director of school engagement at the University of Worcester, regional manager of Babcock Prime Liz Holt and Editor of the Worcester News Michael Purton.

The awards, which are organised by the Worcester News in partnership with the University of Worcester, showcase those that inspire our children.

David Flint, director of school engagement at the University of Worcester, said: "Judging has gone well throughout. The process has been really thorough - there have been lots of nominations.

"There's lots of really good individuals and education groups represented in this area.

Sue Griffiths, events director, for Newsquest Midlands South & Gloucester, said: "It has gone very well. We have had more nominations from more diverse schools, colleges and groups.

"This has made judging a lot more challenging. It is good to see our sponsors getting on board and making judging robust and fair."