A SCHOOL and a teacher from Clackmannanshire are in line for prestigious awards after being announced as finalists for the Scottish Education Awards 2018 which celebrate the hard work and achievements of educators.

Allison Littlejohns, headteacher at Banchory Primary School in Tullibody, has been shortlisted for the Headteacher of the Year award – one of 15 categories in the Scottish Education Awards.

She will now compete against two other finalists, Margaret Shedden from Springside Primary School in North Ayrshire and Marion Davidson from Muirfield School in Aberdeen, at the prestigious awards ceremony at DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central on 6 June 2018.

Alva Academy, meanwhile, is shortlisted for the Year of Young People Participation award, competing against South Ayrshire Youth Form and Sunnyside Primary School from Glasgow.

This year’s awards attracted a record 400 nominations, with each award recognising early learning and schools where a vibrant and progressive culture of continuous innovation has been developed within their own categories.

Allison was applauded for her efforts in providing stability in the school with one nomination form stating: “The school is a more settled, calmer environment, and very friendly and approachable.”

To reach this stage, both finalists have already been assessed by a panel of experts and endorsed by Clackmannanshire council. All finalists will now undergo one final round, a visit from awards’ judges, which will determine the winner.

Run by Media Scotland Events, the Scottish Education Awards celebrate the hard work and success which takes place in education establishments throughout Scotland.

The achievements of those who dedicate their lives to children and young people in classrooms across the country are recognised, through 15 diverse categories.

Alan Armstrong, of sponsors Education Scotland, said: “Each year the awards highlight innovative and effective practices taking place across Scotland’s learning establishments.

“The awards allow us to recognise and celebrate the successes of our children and young people, together with practitioners and all those who support their education.

“Well done to all finalists. I look forward to meeting them and hearing about their inspirational work at the awards ceremony in June.”