Paul Keogh was described as an innovative teacher

French teacher Paul Keogh came top of the class for secondary school teachers after winning the regional round in June.

He received his prize - �25,000 for the school - at the star-studded award ceremony on Sunday evening which was hosted by television presenter Eamonn Holmes.

Mr Keogh was joined by two colleagues from the region - Victoria Clark of St Mary's College, Hull, and Gulfaraz Ahmed of Parkinson Lane Community Primary School in Halifax.

Pupils at the Knaresborough school described Paul Keogh as: "A gentle giant, he has faith in people, you know you have won a prize if you get him as your form tutor or as a teacher."

A pupil who nominated him for the award said "He is the most innovative, enthusiastic teacher I have ever, or will ever, come across."

Appliance of science

Ms Clark was nominated for the Teacher Training Agency Award for Science Teaching.

She was described by her headteacher as "the epitome of everything that is good about teaching."

Mr Ahmed was nominated for the Promethean Award for School Leadership.

He has worked with staff to improve the primary school's Key Stage 2 SATs results.