Last year's award attracted the highest standard of entries yet, with Diploma in Childcare and Education student Catherine Marlow named the winner after a rigorous judging process.
The aim of the award is to recognise students working to a very high level, who have the potential to really shine as early years practitioners. Awards can also help to raise the status of the profession, something that is vital if the sector is to attract and keep talented individuals.
So, if you're a childcare or early years education tutor and you've got an outstanding student, make sure you nominate them on the entry form included with this week's issue. Shortlisted students will be asked to send in a written piece of work, such as an assignment, and then the four finalists and their tutors will be invited to Heinemann's offices in June to meet the judging panel. The winner and runners-up will be given their prizes at a special ceremony at the Early Years and Primary Teaching Exhibition in October 2005.