Nicky Bartholomew, dental nurse tutor from the School of Professionals Complementary to Dentistry (SPCD), scooped Dental Care Professional Teacher of the Year 2009.

She beat seven other finalists and collected the award for making the greatest educational impact on her students.

The annual educational awards, run by the Dental Defence Union (DDU), recognise the achievements of the UK's most outstanding dental trainers.

Students are asked to nominate inspirational lecturers who show commitment, enthusiasm, innovation and passion.

Nicky was voted for by her students and had no idea she was in the running until the shortlist was announced last October.

At the final in London, she had just 15 minutes to present her achievements to a judging panel and answer questions across a number of criteria, including knowledge of the subject and the ability to motivate others.

Her success as Dental Care Professional Teacher of the Year was announced at the seventh annual Educational Awards in London held late last year.

Nicky, who has worked at the School since its opening in October 2004, is the fourth member of staff to be nominated for a DDU award in the last five years and the first dental nurse to win the award.

In the seven years since the inception of the award, tutors from the School of Professionals Complementary to Dentistry have won twice and been runners up twice.

She said: "I'm very surprised and delighted to win. It's great to receive this type of recognition because it shows that my personal approach to education is supported by my peers and students alike.'

Head of SPCD Sara Holmes said: ‘Nicky puts her heart and soul into her teaching and thoroughly deserves to win.'

Rupert Hoppenbrouwers, head of the DDU, said that the standard of this year's competition had led to one of the most difficult judging decisions. He said that the winners' enthusiasm, commitment, knowledge and communication skills are a great asset to the profession.

All finalists were awarded £250 each and the winners in each category received an additional £1,000 towards the cost of educational materials for their school or vocational training. Winners also receive £150 in Marks & Spencer vouchers, courtesy of Dentsply Ltd.