A TEACHER narrowly missed being top of the class, after he was shortlisted for a teaching award.

John Woodward, who teaches maths and ICT at Upper Avon School, Durrington, was nominated for the Guardian Award for Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School, which recognises excellence in the classroom.

Judges visited the school to observe Mr Woodward's teaching and speak with his colleagues.

The nominees from across the West of England were invited to a ceremony at the Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester, last Tuesday and, although Mr Woodward was unsuccessful, chair of the panel Bob Jennings paid tribute to all the candidates.

"Once again, the teaching awards have produced a bumper crop of nominees, who make an enormous contribution to our schools in the west," he said.

"As the number of nominations in the west increases, so does the panel's task.

"It is a privilege and a pleasure to have the opportunity to witness the talent and dedication that exists in our local schools."