AN inspiring teacher from Ringwood School who was nominated by his students and colleagues has picked up an award for being their teacher of the year.

Maths leader Steve Trubacik was one of 55 finalists selected from more than 20,000 nominations in the Silver Pearson teaching award.

Mr Tubacik will attend a ceremony in London’s Guildhall in October, which will be filmed by the BBC, where ten of the silver award winners will receive a gold award.

The awards, founded 16 years ago by Lord Puttnam and recognise the life-changing impact of an exceptional teacher on the lives of their young pupils.

Mr Trubaciks’ Year 12 group said in their nomination: “He makes you believe you can do well. We recognise that he gives us 100 per cent and want to give the same back. He is a legend in his own lifetime.”

Headteacher Chris Edwards said: “His commitment and professionalism is second to none.

“I have never known a colleague who has given so much care and support to his students and makes such a difference. He is an inspirational teacher who takes every opportunity to celebrate success, meeting and greeting his students at the door with a warm and engaging smile and openly celebrating their achievements with them.

“The students he teaches are very privileged to have him. He makes a difference to everyone, not just the students but to the parents, the governors and the teachers. He has transformed the lives of thousands of maths students.”

Ms Edwards added: “Mr Trubacik started teaching at middle school and now he is teaching at the very highest level.”

Awards president Emma Thompson said: “I am genuinely proud and honoured to be the president of the Teaching Awards.

“I owe so much of what I’ve done to my fantastic teachers at school and university and it is exciting to join in celebrating what is probably the most important profession of them all.”

President of core markets at Pearson Rod Bristow said: “Everyone can remember a teacher who inspired and challenged them so it's important to say thank you.

“It is great teaching that makes the biggest difference to learning and that's why great teachers must be recognised.”