The science department at Bede College, Billingham, has been awarded a Beacon Award for biology. A presentation will take place at the college on Monday, and there will be a national ceremony in London on Wednesday, May 15, where Margaret Hodge, Minister for Lifelong Learning and Higher Education, will present the certificate.

MIDWIFE SEARCH: A Thornaby supermarket is asking customers to nominate a midwife or health visitor for an award. The winner of the competition, run by Asda, will receive an Olay pampering pack and the chance to enter the chain's Midwife of the Year award. Nomination forms are available from the customer service desk. For more details, call Tina Mansell or Kath Waddington on (01642) 769898.

STARS SOUGHT: A Billingham theatre group needs a dozen enthusiastic youngsters for a new show. Academy Five wants to stage a show, called Pop Life, in September. It particularly wants to hear from boys, aged 14 to 17, who can bring choreography ideas. The group does not offer auditions, but accepts everyone on a two-week trial basis. For details, contact Paul on 07905 284019.

COUNSELLING SKILLS: A course is starting to help people who provide learning support for children and adults. The counselling scheme is starting at Stockton Sixth Form College next week. It is designed to help adults involved in learning support, in schools, at home or in the community. For more information, contact Jane Clark on (01642) 612611.

QUIZ NIGHT: A quiz will be held at the Tap and Spile pub, Westgate, Guisborough, on Tuesday to raise money for the Priory Project - an initiative aiming to conserve and enhance the 12th Century Gisborough Priory. The quiz, which starts at 9pm, costs 50p per person, and includes pie and peas and a basket of chips per team.

Official opening: Cafe 2K2 at Billingham Campus School, Billingham, will be officially opened on Wednesday night. The cafe is a new venue that serves a wide range of food. It operates via a cashless swipecard system, allowing complete anonymity for free meal students as well as ensuring students remain on the school premises at lunchtime.

HISTORY TALK: A talk exploring memories of old Middlesbrough will be given by local historian Jenny Braddy at the town's central library on Monday at 10.30am. Tea and refreshments will be available.