Three teachers from Harlow College have received one of the highest teaching accolades; a nomination and “thanks” from the Pearson Teaching Awards panel.

The Pearson Teaching Awards were established in 1999 as a means of recognising and celebrating excellence in education. The Awards honour outstanding teachers and teaching and highlight just how vital success in education is to the health and wealth of the UK.

The Teaching Awards offers everyone the opportunity to say “thank you” to the teacher who has helped them most.

The nominated teachers were Delta Muntean, Assistant Academy Manager for Vocational Journalism, Media & Photography, Stevie Doherty, Senior Tutor in Performing Arts and Simon Fitzjohn, Senior Tutor in HE Journalism & Media.They received their awards as part of the national ‘Thank a Teacher Day’.

Karen Spencer, Principal of Harlow College said: “Teachers can make a huge difference to individuals and their lives – being nominated and recognised as excellent teachers is something to be incredibly proud of. Receiving this recognition and thanks as part of the Pearson's excellence awards is a great accolade for the individuals and Harlow College.”

Tom Powter, 21, is currently studying for his NCTJ Fast-Track Diploma at Harlow’s prestigious journalism centre, celebrating its 50th anniversary and which counts Alan Rusbridger, Piers Morgan, Mike Wooldridge and Jeremy Clarkson amongst its alumni. Tom said: “Meeting and interviewing Mr Miliband was a fantastic opportunity for me as a trainee reporter.”

“I felt the college set up the day excellently and it gave us an amazing insight into the dizzying world of political journalism.”

Rebecca Cushway, 25, a journalism student who asked a question in the Q&A, said: “Having Ed Miliband visit the college was something really special.

“Never did I think I would get to question the leader of the opposition so early on in my journalism career.”

In a question and answer session with students, staff and invited guests, Mr Miliband spoke about issues such as housing improving the NHS, vocational training and apprenticeships. Afterwards, journalism and media students benefited from watching BBC political editor Nick Robinson film an interview with Mr Miliband in the College’s brand new Media and Journalism Centre. Mr Robinson spoke at length to students and answered questions about his work at the BBC.

This has been a busy year for Harlow College, having previously hosted a visit from Prime Minister David Cameron earlier in May 2014. Neil Silver, course leader for HE Journalism and Media Department said of the visit “This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to experience life in the fast lane, covering live news by interviewing a high-profile public figure and then writing a news story afterwards – this is what journalism is all about”.

Karen Spencer, Principal said: “I’m very proud of our students who proved they have the skills and qualities to hold their own with a senior politician. Our School of Journalism is celebrating 50 years this year, and so it has been a fantastic opportunity for them to welcome both the PM and leader of HM Opposition to Harlow College.”

Ed Miliband MP, Leader of the Labour Party, said:

“It was a real privilege to visit Harlow College again and speak to such switched on, inspiring students. I had several press interviews but some of the most challenging and interesting questions came from the journalism students - I’m sure they will go far. It’s great to see colleges like this working so well to give our young people the skills and aspiration they need to achieve their potential.”

Graduates from media, journalism, photography and animation were celebrated and awarded for their stunning projects at a glitzy ceremony at Harlow's Cineworld last week.