THE search has begun for people who deserve to be recognised for their contribution to education.

Last year, Jack Stephenson, who is chairman of governors at Brompton Hall School, North Yorkshire, won the Outstanding Governor Award at the national Edexcel's Achievement in Education Awards ceremony.

A local businessman, a governor at another school, chairman of North Yorkshire Probation and a magistrate, Mr Stephenson was singled out for his work in solving the severe problems faced by the school.

"I felt very honoured and proud at winning the award. It was a recognition of the important role governors have to play in developing education for our young people at grass roots level," said Mr Stephenson.

Edexcel is now encouraging nominations for people whose performance in education deserves special recognition. Students, teachers, trainers, governors, journalists and employers can be nominated for one of the eleven categories.

The winners will be invited to a celebration dinner at a London hotel hosted by TV personality Kate Humble, who has presented Tomorrow's World, Top Gear and a variety of holiday shows. A panel of celebrity judges, including media chef Antony Worrall Thompson, Falkland's war veteran Simon Weston, former TV newsreader Anne Dawson and journalist and former MP Martin Bell will determine who wins the title of Outstanding Student of the Year.

Charles Clarke, Secretary of State for Education, will present the awards.

For more information, call (0207) 758 5515 before March 14