Good nominations use anecdote and example to bring classroom experiences to life and explain why the teacher makes a difference.

The selection panel are looking for: outstanding teaching of physics, how pupils and colleagues have been inspired, how they have made physics exciting and relevant effort beyond the call of the timetable and how they cope with frequently revised curricula. A minimum of 10 years teaching experience is typical for those receiving the awards.

Ian Cuthbert, Institute of Physics, 76 Portland Place, London W1B 1NT, tel: 020 7470 4800; ian.cuthbert@iop.org; www.iop.org