A NEWTON Aycliffe headteacher is preparing for his big day at the profession's version of the Oscars ceremony.

Steve Harness, head of Woodham Community Technology College, could win a prize package of cash and equipment worth over £25,000 if he triumphs in the leadership category at the national Teaching Awards.

The winner will be announced on Saturday October 26 at the awards ceremony at the London Palladium.

The event, which pays tribute to excellence in teaching, will be attended by a host of celebrities and will be shown on BBC television early next month.

Judges who gave Mr Harness the regional award said that when he came to Woodham ten years ago the school was struggling and had a serious budget deficit. Today classrooms and corridors are decorated with murals, there is an excellent resource centre and nearly 200 online computers.

Last year Mr Harness was seconded to work with other headteachers to raise the attainment of 15 and 16-year-olds throughout County Durham.

Mr Harness, who was nominated by a group of Year 11 students, said that he was tremendously proud to receive the regional award.