THE "Education Oscars" were held by Clackmannanshire Council's Education Services team at Alloa Academy last week.

The annual event, which is officially called the Towards Excellence Awards, aims to highlight good practice in the Wee County's schools.

It also provides an opportunity to recognise outstanding projects, innovative ideas and committed colleagues who go the extra mile for children and young people in Clacks.

There was an overwhelming number of nominations for this year's event.

All of them were high quality and, due to the fierce competition, only half of the nominations made the shortlist and were invited to the awards on Thursday, September 5.

The Parkinson's Choir at Alva Academy was one of the groups to triumph, taking home the Arts, Culture and Sport Award.

And Menstrie Primary's School Book Festival won the Literacy and Numeracy Award.

Individuals who were commended included Karen Scott and Dawn Bongartz and ABC Nursery and Park Nursery – who were both handed the Star Performer Award for educators.

Anne Pearson, the council's chief education officer, praised the work of all the Wee County's school staff after the event.

She said: "I am in the fortunate position that I get to see every day the excellent work and dedicated staff in our educational establishments who contribute to improving the safety, learning and wellbeing of children, young people, adults and families across the whole of Clackmannanshire.

"I also work at the centre with staff from all teams to support and challenge everyone in our service to be the best they can be.

"Of crucial importance to this are the links we make with our partners, to deliver the best possible service to the young people and families we work with.

"Many thanks to our partners at Amey who sponsored all the trophies for this event."