A SCHOOL which has brightened up a York village with its gardening efforts has been nominated for a Community Pride award.

Dunnington Primary School has been put forward for Best Primary School Project for its gardening challenge competition, which has seen children decorate recycled containers and plant them up with flowers, herbs, fruits or vegetables.

The 87 creations have made an eyecatching display to help support Dunnington’s annual Yorkshire In Bloom entry.

Caroline Gilderdale, from the school, said: “We will be very proud to show the Yorkshire In Bloom judges all the work we have done and the fun we have had being creative with gardening and enhancing our local environment.”

Meanwhile, more teachers have been nominated for the teacher of the year award, which recognises those who inspire their pupils.

Russell Potepa, a teacher at York College, has been nominated by one of his students for excellent and inspirational biology A-level teaching and for valuable UCAS guidance.

Lauren Ruddock said: “I have nominated Mr Potepa for this award because he has inspired this year’s A2 Biology class. A-level biology can be difficult to understand because of the specific nature of the content of the course.”

Simon White, of Clifton Green School, has been nominated by 11-year-old pupil Jason Greaves, who said he is a very popular teacher who makes it fun to learn.

He said: “I think he should be not only teacher of the year but teacher of the decade.”

Ros Latham, head teacher at Lakeside Primary School, has been nominated by the parent of a pupil and former pupil, Melanie Horn, who said she had been a wonderful support and influence on her son, Alex.

She said: “Mrs Latham is always visible and ready to help in the school, is very patient and understanding in all situations.

“Mrs Latham has spent many years at Lakeside and is well thought of and it will be a sad day when she retires next Easter 2013 as she will be a very hard act of follow.”

The Community Pride Awards, which will have a York 800 theme this year, are sponsored by Benenden Healthcare and run in partnership with City of York Council.