The search is on for Kent and Medway's top teaching staff.

People are being invited to make nominations for the annual Kent Teacher of the Year Awards 2011, which is being held in May.

The awards were started to mark the vital contribution that teaching staff make to our community.

They recognise the expertise and dedication that is the hallmark of an outstanding teacher.

The event is organised by the KM Group and a number of important community partners including key sponsor Denne.

Award categories include primary, secondary, newly qualified teacher, teaching assistant, science and technology teacher, head teacher and teaching team.

A panel of judges will select winners from the local authority areas, including Medway.

Other event sponsors include KCC, Canterbury Christ Church University, Star Lesson, Network & Cabling Solutions and Southern Educational Leadership Trust.

Nominations must be in by noon on Friday, February 18.

To find out more about the awards and make a nomination go to www.kmcharityteam.co.uk