THEY are the ones who go above and beyond to shape our children's future.

Now they have been recognised for their dedication, long hours, and the impact they make on the lives of the city's young people.

At a glitzy award ceremony last night, scores packed into The Stone Hotel for the fourth annual Salisbury Journal Education Award, which are aimed at celebrating those that go above and beyond in our local schools.

"Everyone remembers a good teacher" said Journal Publisher Bill Browne

"These awards affirm our intention at the Journal to champion young people in a meaningful way.

"These young people are our most valuable resource. Our future."

Following a special dinner where wine flowed and stories shared between the more than 100 attendees, there were a number of talks from well known local community figureheads, including Andy Rhind-Tutt and Tom Bromley.

The pair spoke about the work they are doing with schoolchildren, including the Schools Challenge and Salisbury Literary Festival.

But, it was the talk from special guest Julian Richards which made guests really sit up and take note.

He spoke about the archaeological work he does with local schools, to inspire the next generation of historical diggers, as well as his "career in ruins".

Allan Thompson, of the award's principal sponsor KBR Aspire Defence, said: "We wanted to sponsor these awards because we have a lot of employees but not enough young people coming through who are studying STEM subjects.

"We want to encourage more young people to pursue careers i construction or engineering, which as well as being a fulfilling career also means you will never be our of a job!"

Full list of winners:

Nursery/Primary School Teacher of the Year (sponsored by Radiquip): Baz Ramsay, Wyndham Park Infant School

Secondary School Teacher of the Year: Dr Emma Baker, Bishop Wordsworth's School

College Teacher of the Year: Rebecca Anderson, Salisbury Sixth Form College

Supporting Staff Member of the Year (sponsored by ABF): Norma Hallett, Wyndham Park Infant & St Mark's Junior Schools

Leadership Award (sponsored by KBR Aspire Defence): Trudy Surman, St Osmunds Pre School

Community Involvement Award (sponsored by specsavers): The Volunteer Farm Leaders at River Bourne Community Farm (Group); Susie Lamb, Salisbury Cathedral School (Individual)

Innovation Award (sponsored by Wiltshire College): Ju Petty, Woodlands Primary School

Special Education Needs Staff Award (sponsored by Bishop Wordsworth's School): Kate Milford, Sarum Academy

Careers, Education and Guidance Award (sponsored by KBR Aspire Defence): Sally Armstrong, Bishop Wordsworth's School

Lifetime Achievement Award: Sally Tedd, Manor Fields Primary School