London: The best teachers are enthusiastic, inspiring, innovative and indeed in a class of their own. These are the latest findings of research funded in primary and secondary schools by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) into what makes good teachers even better.

The two-year Effective Classroom Practice (ECP) was conducted by Christopher Day, Pam Sammons and Alison Kington at the School of Education, University of Nottingham from 2006 to 2008.

Day said: "The more effective teachers create a positive climate for learning by challenging pupils' ideas, inspiring them, and are more innovative in their practice."

The results show the best teachers are not necessarily those with the most experience. They are the ones with enthusiasm for their work, high aspirations for the success of every pupil, positive relations, high motivation, commitment and resilience.

Combining good knowledge of their subject and teaching practice and providing support tailored to the individual needs of each child, these teachers focus on building self-esteem, engendering trust and maintaining respect, said a University of Nottingham release. IANS