TAVISTOCK College teacher Crispin Chambers (pictured right) was presented with his regional teaching award at a ceremony in the House of Commons.

Head of Japanese at the college Mr Chambers was given the title of Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School in the South West.

He was shortlisted from 24,000 nominations made by grateful pupils, past and present, parents and colleagues in the Regional Teaching Awards 2013 which celebrates exceptional teachers.

Mr Chambers will join other winning teachers and awarded schools from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland at the prestigious UK-wide Pearson Teaching Awards ceremony held in London in October and on BBC2 in the autumn.

President of Pearson UK Rod Bristow said: 'We want to recognise and support inspirational teachers, for their commitment to teaching and learning and improving the life chances of the next generation.  It's really important that we create opportunities to say thank you. 

'The Pearson Teaching Awards champion exceptional teaching professionals across the UK. All young people deserve the very best chance to make progress in their lives through education and great teachers make this happen. Congratulations to each and every winner.'