A BARNSLEY teacher has been handed a prestigious award for his ‘outstanding commitment’ to digital innovation.

Kalam Neale, Esports programme lead at Barnsley College, was presented with a Pearson Teaching Silver Award as he created and delivered the country’s first ever BTEC level two and three in Esports.

He has now been shortlisted to win one of just 16 Gold Awards later this year.

He said: “I am truly honoured and humbled.

“It was extra special for me to be presented with the award by our principal on Thank a Teacher Day alongside the rest of the sport staff team.

“We all know how difficult this industry can be and also the reason we all started this career in the first place, not for gratification, recognition or reward but for how we can positively impact the lives of others through education.

“I’ll be forever grateful for the vision and support of my amazing colleagues at Barnsley College, for whom without, my work in this area simply would not have been possible.”

Yiannis Koursis, principal and chief executive at Barnsley College, added: “We are delighted with Kalam’s achievements.

“The award not only recognises his efforts and accomplishments, but also the college’s ongoing commitment to Esports and digital innovation.

“I would like to congratulate Kalam on his award - it is richly deserved and we are very proud of him.”