THE region's most inspiring teachers and teaching assistants were yesterday honoured in the Oscars of the teaching world.

The BT Teaching Awards, held at Newcastle's Assembly Rooms, paid tribute to the tireless work carried out by teachers every day.

The Leadership Trust Award for leadership in a primary school went to Neil Parker, of Heighington Church of England Primary School, near Darlington.

According to his testimonial, he has often been called in to help revive other schools "with his talent for balancing the practicalities of running what is in effect a small business with the emotional content of a thriving school".

He said: "It is a wonderful feeling. Everyone at the school has contributed for this to happen - the parents, the governors, the wonderful children who are so motivated and fine teachers. I am here taking their accolade."

The Guardian award for outstanding new teacher went to Riosin McVeigh, of Wolsingham School and Community College, Weardale.

Ms McVeigh has restarted a long dead debating society, formed new clubs and inspired a new interest in history.

The BT Award for Teacher of the Year in a primary school was won by Maureen Stephenson, of St Mary's RC First School, Newcastle, while the award for Lifetime Achievement was won by Joan Lister, of Ashfield Nursery School, Newcastle.

The winners received a prize package worth £3,000 for their school. Those who got a commendation won £250 for their school.

Regional winners go on to the 2002 Teaching Awards in London in October.

Commendations: BT Award for Teacher of the Year in a secondary school: Neil McGrath, Woodham Community Technology, Newton Aycliffe, and Sue Davies, Thornhill Secondary School Sunderland.

Leadership Trust Award for leadership in a primary school: Pat Barker, Cotherstone Primary School, Barnard Castle and Michael Harris, Middleton-in-Teesdale Primary and Nursery School.

Guardian Award for outstanding new teacher: Timothy Cassap, St Michael's RC Primary School, Durham; Clare Powell, Abbey Hill School Technology College, Stockton; Peter Burn, Manor College of Technology, Hartlepool.

Award for school and community involvement: John Maddison, Wolsingham School and Community College, Bishop Auckland and teachers assistant of the year: John Jamieson, Blakeston Community School, Stockton.