The Great Big Thank Yous: Education chief Pank Patel backs our awards

Mr Patel has been regional schools commissioner for the West Midlands since September 2014.

At the same time, he has been headteacher of Wood Green Academy in Wednesbury since 2006.

The school is a multicultural comprehensive specialist school for 11 to 19-year-olds, located in one of the most deprived wards in the country.

Under his leadership the school has become a Converter Academy and has achieved two outstanding Ofsted judgments in 2006 and 2012.

Endorsing the Express & Star's Great Big Thank You Awards, Mr Patel said: I feel really privileged and honoured to endorse these awards.

"The awards are for those people in our communities that do a fantastic job and deserve recognition."

Mr Patel has also been a National Leader of Education (NLE) since February 2011 and is lead education advisor for the Ormiston Academies Trust and a leadership development facilitator for the British Council helping deliver Leadership Development programmes in other countries.

He is also a serving Ofsted inspector.

From September this year, Mr Patel will take up a new post as principal of George Salter Academy in West Bromwich.

He added: "These people may be carers, nurses, teachers, people working in public service, those people who help us everyday to make our lives much better.

"I encourage you to think about these people in our communities that make a big difference to you."

The Teacher of the Year Award is aimed at those who inspire their pupils, encouraging them to enjoy learning and doing whatever they can to help them achieve their potential.

It could be someone who has spent decades at the same school or a newcomer to the profession, who is already making a difference.

That special someone could range from a teacher helping to make learning fun for primary school children to a tutor helping adults to learn new skills.

The Great Big Thank You Awards want to recognise all of those who have made a positive contribution to their area.

The Teacher of the Year Award is just one of ten awards up for grabs.

The rest include Volunteer/Fundraiser of the Year, Neighbour of the Year, Unsung Sporting Hero of the Year, Angel of the Year, Ambassador of the Year, Inspirational Leader of the Year, Young Star of the Year, Community Champion(s) and Grandparent(s) of the Year.

Though the deadline for nominations has now passed, the Express & Star is still interested in hearing who you think may deserve recognition.

Call us on 01902 313131 to find out more, or visit our dedicated website.