A WEST Somerset College teacher has won an award for her work to improve opportunities for students, through her support and initiatives in careers education advice and guidance.

Deborah Eele was given the personal contribution to education award by the Somerset Education Partnership, a collaboration between schools and the local authority.

The partnership marked its first year with an awards ceremony, celebrating excellence across the county in careers education and guidance, and business links with education.

Deborah was nominated by Rosa Lewis of the Careers and Enterprise Company, one of three national partner organisations working with the Opportunity Area Programme.

Deborah’s work for West Somerset College has seen the re-launch of work experience for year ten, multiple enterprise events in which local employers have supported students, Year 11 mock interview day, the facilitation of the Young Enterprise company programme and the implementation of a business mentoring scheme – along with many others events and initiatives.

“It is a lovely surprise to be recognised for all the successes we have achieved over the last year at West Somerset College,” Deborah said.

“Whilst I am very happy to accept the award, it has been a team effort across the college and also working with many external partner groups and local business people.

“This has led to a reformed and exciting careers education advice and guidance programme at the college,” she said.