A HARD working science teacher from Christchurch Junior School has been recognised with a national award.

Helen Ellis was presented with a Primary Science Teacher Award in an assembly for her dedication to the subject at the school which has over 550 children up to the age of 11.

Simon Adorian, head teacher for Christchurch Junior School, said: "Helen organises big science competitions and we have a big science fair every year in which children can devise anything that they wish, including models, films, photographs and some re-create their experiments for the fair.

"All of the children walk around the fair and have a look at everything, as well as the judges, and at their age, they do some amazing experiments

"She's really keen to get the children involved in hands-on and practical challenges which have recently included a chain reaction challenge."

The awards, which were established in 2003, aim to celebrate and reward the teachers who are 'doing incredible work, raising standards, excelling in tough conditions and going above and beyond.'

They are open to all current primary school teachers who are deemed as being innovative and creative in teaching science, while inspiring colleagues and contributing to developing the subject in their school and beyond.

Simon added: "The awards offer recognition for someone who takes science really seriously at a time when there are question marks over the subject.

"An independent science advisor was invited to come along and be a judge at one of the science fairs and I think that advisor realised that it was something quite special.

"She's a hardworking lady who has been at the school for many years, whose work deserves to be recognised."