THREE teachers from Okehampton and surrounding area will be among a host of education stars from across the South West who will shine as finalists at the 2009 Teaching Awards.

The final will be in 12 categories and will take place at a prestigious event hosted by South West TV news presenter Justin Leigh.

The three local finalists are, Keith Webber from Okehampton College, who is up for the Award for Enterprise, Ian Courtney, of Okehampton College, for the Award for Governor of the Year and Mrs Lois Gough, from Shebbear Community School, for the BT Award for Teacher of the Year in a primary school.

Celebrating eleven years of recognition for unsung heroes, the teaching awards will focus on finalists from across the South West.

Each of the 12 winners will receive a Plato, which is the teaching awards symbol of excellence in education.

Chief executive of the teaching awards said the ceremony was a chance to witness the skill, devotion, passion and professionalism each of the teachers bring to their work.

'The teaching awards provides the perfect platform from which to celebrate teachers for their continued dedication and commitment to society.

'Supporting them is part of our ongoing commitment to education across the UK.'

The ceremony will take place on Thursday, June 11 at Dartington Hall in Totnes.