Richard Morris, who works at Park Primary Pupil Referral Unit in Bowling, was awarded the awards for Newcomer of the Year at the School Awards.

He first came to the school in 2010 as a behaviour support worker, but returned in September as a class teacher to complete his NQT.

The school is for primary-aged pupils with extreme social, emotional, behavioural difficulties and mental health issues, and Mr Morris was nominated by school head Kirsty Ratcliffe, who said Mr Morris helped improve pupils’ self-esteem and made them feel comfortable and safe at school.

She said: “Richard has a gift and in-built passion for teaching, particularly for vulnerable young people.

“He is highly motivated and motivational to others, always encouraging children to work to their best abilities.

“His observations recognise him not only as an outstanding teacher, but one who has excellence in behaviour management and an understanding and appreciation of the needs of our most vulnerable children, who are placed from all over the Bradford district."

When his name was announced there were cheers from his colleagues at the school, and after accepting the award he said: "I'm definitely going to bring this to work in the morning.

"The real award is going into work and seeing the kids come through the doors with a smile on their face.

"I'm feeling very humble, I was up against such great contenders. I hope all the other nominees continue in their profession for a long time."

The award was sponsored by Bradford College

Honourable mention:

Laura Rogers, Westbourne Primary School

Natalie Mawer, University Academy Keighley