A SCHOOL in Branksome which offers specialist education and care to children with disabilities has been nominated for a prestigious national award.

Victoria Education Centre for Disabled Children, which is based on Lindsay Road, is up for an accolade in three categories at the annual TES School Awards, which aim to celebrate the extraordinary commitment, quality and innovation shown by teachers and support staff across the UK.

Simon Brown, head teacher at Victoria Education Centre, said: "I am delighted that Victoria Education Centre has been shortlisted for these awards.

"This is a fantastic achievement and recognition of the amazing work our staff all do and the difference they make to the lives and future success of the students."

Simon said that they have been shortlisted in the Art and Drama, Creative School of the Year and Alternative Provision/Special school of the Year categories.

The school, which is run by Livability, a national Christian disability and community engagement charity, is open to children and young people aged from three to 19, who have a range of complex or exceptional learning and care needs.

He also thanked the 'amazing fundraising efforts' of parents, local businesses, individuals and local communities who want to support the work of the school.

Now in their eighth year, the TES Schools Awards is the largest school awards ceremony in the country and recognise the outstanding contribution to education made by teams and individuals both inside and outside schools. There are 17 different categories within the awards event, with the winners being announced at a ceremony held in London on Friday, June 24.