TODAY we announce the winners of the first awards celebrating education in Bolton.

Dozens of entries were received for The Bolton News School Awards 2015, with nominations from teachers, parents, governors and even children who want to share the good work happening in their schools with the rest of the borough.

Editor-in-chief Ian Savage said: “We decided to introduce these awards because every week we hear about so many great things going on in Bolton's schools.

"We wanted to recognise all the brilliant schools, pupils, teachers and staff who help to make education in the town so good.

"The standard of entries was very high. Well done to all our winners and a big thank you to everyone who entered."

The awards were launched just before the summer break to seek out the best pupils, schools, teachers and other staff, while at the same time highlighting innovation and best practice right across the area.

The awards were backed by Bolton’s leading businesses and organisations, who have sponsored the 13 categories.

Judges faced a difficult task of deciding just one winner as the nominations gave heartfelt accounts of what a difference teachers, staff and others who are connected to the school have made to classes and individuals.

The winner of the primary school of the year award is St Peter and St Paul’s RC Primary School, Pilkington Street, Bolton. Headteacher, Trish Grogan said: "I would like to say how delighted we are as a school to be awarded the best primary school in Bolton.

"It is an absolute honour to be the headteacher of St Peter and Paul's because the children are just amazing.

"We have fabulous parents who are truly supportive of everything we do in school.

"The staff and governors go above and beyond on a daily basis to ensure that children have the most stunning environment to learn in and the very best teaching is provided in every classroom.

"All staff from our wonderful cleaners, lunchtime supervisors, cooks, site manager and office staff care about creating the oasis of learning and fun that is St Peter and Paul's."

A full list of the winners is below.

An awards ceremony celebrating the achievements of the winners will take place on November 19, at the Holiday Inn, Bolton.

THE BOLTON NEWS SCHOOL AWARDS 2015

Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Bolton College: Fred Tyldesley of Ladybridge High School

Primary School Pupil Award, sponsored by Paul Davies Kitchens and Appliances: St Peter and Paul’s RC School, Subhan Khan

Secondary School Pupil Award, sponsored by NW Design: Kearsley Academy, Oliver Fielding

Secondary Head Award, sponsored by Cole Securities: Smithills School, Alec Cottrill

Unsung Hero Award, sponsored by Leapfrog Technologies: Hayley Rostron of Schools ICT Department

Secondary School Award, sponsored by Surveyroof: St James CE High School, Farnworth

Primary School Award, sponsored by Surveyroof: St Peter and St Paul’s RC Primary School

Primary Head Award, sponsored by Synergy Dental Clinic: Frances Lysyj of St Thomas of Canterbury RC School, Heaton

Secondary Class Award, sponsored by Bolton Sixth Form College: Year 11 science class, Sharples School

Primary School Teacher Award, sponsored by Bolton Council: Mrs Brooks, St Catherine’s CE Primary School, Horwich

Secondary School Teacher Award, sponsored by Bolton Council: Julia Head, Bolton School

Teaching Assistant Award: sponsored by Unison: Michelle Thornley, St Saviour CE Primary School, Ringley

Primary Class of the Year, sponsored by The Bolton News: Year Six The Oaks, Sharples