DARLINGTON school staff have reached the final of prestigious national awards after being nominated for their efforts during the pandemic.

Beaumont Hill Academy have been placed in the final of the TES Schools Awards 2020 in the category of Alternative Provisions School of the Year, where they are up against seven other establishments for the top prize.

Caroline Green, the executive principle of Beaumont Hill Academy, said: "Our staff really did go above and beyond in supporting children and their parents. "School remained open during lockdown with around 60 pupils attending every day."

The final will be held on November 13 at 8pm.