A TEACHER from Steeton is being honoured by Oxford University for the inspiration he provided to one of his former students.

Adam Pothecary, who teaches English language and literature at Bradford College, is among a select group of state-sector teachers to be recognised in annual accolades from the leading uni.

He was nominated by Rocco Memery, now an English language and literature student at Harris Manchester College, Oxford, whom he taught at A-level.

The university's Inspirational Teachers Awards recognise the importance of school or college teaching staff in encouraging bright students to realise their potential and make a successful application to Oxford.

Mr Pothecary said he was "surprised and flattered" to be nominated.

He added: "Rocco was a delight to teach – extremely intelligent, perceptive and analytical when looking closely at literature, but also highly motivated, hard-working and very well organised.

"His real strength though lay in the fact that he always listened very carefully to other students, was extremely generous with his help and time, was never arrogant, dismissive, impatient or condescending and would always offer and suggest alternative readings and interpretations of texts rather than issue edicts or confrontational challenges."

Rocco describes his former teacher as "the most dedicated tutor I have encountered".

"I nominated him because he made me fall in love with my subject – without his support and encouragement I likely would not have accepted my place at Oxford," he said.

Dr Samina Khan, director of undergraduate admissions and outreach at Oxford University, praised Bradford College for providing "inspiration, support and encouragement" to its candidates.

Mr Pothecary will receive his award at a ceremony in Oxford in May.