A DURHAM school has scooped two national awards for its science teaching.

Two members of staff at Durham High School for Girls have been hailed the best in the country, just over a year after the school unveiled its new science block.

Sharon Marsden won the Salters National Award for teaching of chemistry and Michelle Bartley has carried off the National Award for Science Technicians.

It is the first time the school has entered the award scheme.

The pair were nominated by the school's head of science, Deborah Guy.

A spokeswoman at the school said: "We are delighted and proud to announce that both Dr Marsden and Mrs Bartley have been selected for the top awards which will be presented at a ceremony in London on December 9.''

Dr Marsden, who has taught at the school for four years, described her success as a "little awe-inspiring''.

Mrs Bartley, who has worked at the school for 17 years, said winning was an excellent opportunity to raise the profile of the role of technicians.