It was the first ever Daily Echo Education Awards - and it really did set the bar with the standard of entries we received.
Out of the dozens of nominations our panel of education experts found way more than just the final 27 teachers and support staff who give their all to the children and young people they teach.
With a glittering ceremony at top Southampton venue the Grand Harbour Hotel, the winners were announced by Daily Echo's regional managing director Vincent Boni, with certificates, trophies - and a few celebratory drinks all sponsored by award winning Hampshire communications experts at Silver Lining.
Speaking after the event Southampton City Council's education chief Councillor Darren Paffey described the event as "important" in recognising the "excellent work" going on in nurseries, schools and colleges across Hampshire and Southampton.
He added: "It was a very difficult decision to choose the overall winners."
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