A KIDDERMINSTER says she feels "honoured" and "proud" to be nominated for a Worcestershire Education Award.

Charlotte Smith, who teaches at Birchen Coppice Academy, has been put forward for the 'New Teacher of the Year Award'.

She started working at the school in September 2022, shortly after moving to Kidderminster from Leicester.

The 26-year-old has been described as an "incredibly kind and thoughtful" teacher, who "exemplifies everything that you want a teacher to be."

Miss Smith said: "I am really surprised and feel honoured to have been nominated for this award. Although I am early on in my career, teaching is a real, genuine passion of mine and something I can't imagine myself not doing.

"I feel proud to be making a difference and helping to inspire young minds to become one step closer to achieving their passions and dreams, encouraging them through difficult times but also cheering on their achievements.

"As a new teacher to my school I have really felt a strong sense of community which has supported me both in my own development as a teacher but also in working together to make a difference to each of the children in our care."

Worcester News:

The Worcestershire Education Awards in partnership with the University of Worcester has 12 categories and runs across all of our Worcestershire titles – the Worcester News, Malvern Gazette, Evesham Journal, Bromsgrove & Droitwich Advertiser, Redditch Advertiser and Kidderminster Shuttle.

The closing date for nominations is Monday, February 13.

The awards will culminate in a black tie event on Thursday, April 20, at 7pm at the Abbey Hotel, Great Malvern.

Nominations take just a few minutes. To nominate someone click here.