A number of inspirational and dedicated people from Lowestoft schools have been nominated for awards that celebrate success, inspiration and endeavour across Suffolk's education system.

The Raising the Bar Awards, run by Suffolk County Council, received a large number of nominations for roles including teachers, support staff and school governors. They have now been whittled down to just three nominees in 20 different categories.

The shortlist contains five nominations for Oulton Broad Primary School, including Educational Setting of the Year and Excellence in Middle Leadership.

Headteacher Jamie White said: 'We're really proud of all the children and staff at school and we will always keep working hard to improve outcomes for all the pupils in Lowestoft.

'We're very excited about the nominations, particularly the educational setting of the year category.'

Junior apprentice Geena Clarke has been nominated in the Young Achiever of the Year category after her work for Waveney District Council.

She said: 'I've enjoyed the variety that's come with the role as there is always something going on.'

Julie Mayo has also been nominated in the category of Support Staff of the Year for her work at Ormiston Denes Academy.

Principal at the school Peter Marshall said: 'Julie has, through tireless dedication and hard work, helped thousands of our pupils achieve and do more than either they or we might have thought possible.'

The awards ceremony will take place this Thursday, June 25 in Bury St Edmunds.

The Raising the Bar project was launched by Suffolk County Council in a bid to improve educational standards across the whole of Suffolk.

? Are you celebrating an award nomination? Email joe.randlesome@archant.co.uk