Top award for local teacher

Russell Jones from Geoffrey Chaucer Technology College was a regional winner in the national competition after being nominated by local parents, pupils, former pupils and colleagues.

Russell's award in the Innovation in Education category was one of two for Southwark teachers out of the 15 London awards. He will now receive a £2,000 cash grant for the school plus £1,000 worth of ICT equipment.

The next step is the national awards ceremony in October, where he could obtain a further £13,000 cash grant for the school plus £10,000 worth of ICT equipment if he is the national winner.

"I am absolutely honoured" says Jones. "It's with great pride that I bring this award back to the staff and pupils at Geoffrey Chaucer school, who I feel deserve this award as much as I do."

Anke Bukland from Spa School in Monnow Road also received a special commendation for Teaching Assistant of the Year.

The awards ceremony was hosted by BBC London anchor Gillian Joseph and took place on Monday 28 June at the Royal College of Physicians.