A teenager described by her mum as being a “natural” with people with learning difficulties has been nominated for a Bradford Young Citizen Award.

Emily Sutton, 16, is a mentor to teenagers who have problems learning.

Now Emily, of Tenterfields, Apperley Bridge, Bradford, as been nominated in the Making a Positive Contribution category of the Bradford Council awards.

Emily also often takes care of her five-year-old brother, who has learning difficulties, and the autistic son of a family friend.

She attends Benton Park School in Rawdon, which works in partnership with Green Meadows Special School, running joint lessons with pupils from both schools.

Emily was one of four girls chosen to act as a helper in specially-organised science lessons. Her mum Caroline said: “She helps with their work and is really encouraging.

“Emily has been absolutely brilliant with her brother – I suppose she has been brought up knowing what to do automatically. People really warm to her.

“She wants to work with children with special needs when she is older. It’s quite a challenging thing and most teenagers would find it really difficult but she is a natural.”

The school is part of the North West Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre (SILC), a cluster of schools and units for children with special needs.

Deputy head Richard Hoban said: “Emily is the most fantastic student. She is so helpful and encouraging.”

Bradford Young Citizen Awards 2009 will roll out the red carpet and honour outstanding achievements made by young people.

The scheme, sponsored by the Telegraph & Argus, is in its third year and will culminate in an Oscar-style ceremony at St George’s Hall on February 10. People have until November 28 to nominate young people. Visit www.braford.gov.uk or call (01274) 437718.