THREE popular York teachers and a preschool manager are all in the running to win a prestigious Community Pride Award.

Emma Mowat, from Osbaldwick Primary School, Simon Breare, from York High School, Christie-Lauren Waite, from St Paul’s C of E Primary School, in Holgate, and Sandra Sanderson, the manager of Little St Mary’s Preschool Playgroup, in Askham Richard, near York, have all been put forward in the Teacher of the Year category, which is sponsored by Work With Schools.

Mrs Mowat, 28, a Year 6 teacher, was nominated by a colleague, Rachel Barber, who says she was asked to by pupils at the school.

Mrs Barber said: “All the children adore Mrs Mowat and they always enjoy her fun and inspiring lessons.

“Mrs Mowat, like many teachers, is hard working and considers and cares about the children in her class even when she is not with them.

“She always brings out the best in the children and ultimately she believes in each and every one of them. She is kind, caring and has the biggest smile in school.”

Science and maths teacher Mr Breare, 44, has been nominated by Libby Taylor, who said: “He is an amazing teacher that definitely deserves the Teacher of the Year award. He runs the school’s science club which has entered into competitions for solar boats etc. We do lots of great activities and he’s so committed to it. I’ve not been going to the club for very long but I feel very welcome.”

Aimee Suter has also nominated Mr Breare. Explaining her reasons for putting him forward for the Teacher of the Year award, she said: “With Mr Breare’s support I have been able to excel my expected GCSE grades.

“He is an amazing teacher, he is happy to help anyone, kind, caring and patient.

“He has encouraged me to be a better scientist and all round person. If it wasn’t for Mr Breare I wouldn’t have developed my science knowledge and understanding.”

In nominating Miss Waite, 26, a Class Reception teacher, Gemma Oldfield commented: “Miss Waite is a new member of St Paul’s staff and she has gone above and beyond to change the class reception both inside and out.

“Miss Waite had a fundraiser in her own time by herself to raise the money to completely change the outside area new flooring, climbing frames, planting area. The love care and support she shows the children is one of the nicest things to see as a parent.”

Mrs Sanderson, 53, has been nominated by Jennifer Adams, who has also nominated the preschool manager for the Charity Fundraiser of the Year and Volunteer of the Year awards.

A statement accompanying the nomination said: “I am nominating this lady as she literally lives and breathes children.

“She is the manager of a successful preschool that nurtures and teaches children to grow and be independent. She is also a leader of forest schools.

“She has raised five wonderful boys and also volunteers at 1st Tadcaster Scouts group where she is the Beaver leader. She also helps out for cubs and scouts.

“She continually supports and helps with fundraising and manages to find the time to always help or offer her advice when needed. She is amazing.”

The Community Pride Awards are run by The Press with City of York Council and the primary sponsor is York-based healthcare organisation Benenden. Nominees must live in, or contribute to life in the City of York Council area.

Finalists will be announced in The Press next month and they will be invited to an awards ceremony at York Racecourse in October.