Three teachers have been shortlisted for the School Biology Teacher of the Year Award 2019. The award, recognising the very best and most inspiring biology teachers in 11-18 education in the UK, will be awarded in July.

The three teachers selected for the final are Charles Gill from Alcester Grammar School, Alcester;  Matthew Shaw from The Ruth Gorse Academy, Leeds; and Gemma Singleton from The Beacon School, Banstead.

This year's shortlisted teachers, from left to right: Charles Gill, Gemma Singleton and Matthew Shaw

Dr Mark Downs CSci FRSB, chief executive of the Royal Society of Biology said: “Congratulations to all those being shortlisted for this year’s school biology teacher of the year award.

“We’re proud to recognise those who demonstrate such outstanding commitment to teaching, inspiring the next generation of biologists, and equipping students with knowledge they’ll value throughout their lives.”

Charles Gill, biology teacher at Alcester Grammar School, has been teaching for twelve years. Gill was nominated for his wide range of teaching styles to challenge and engage students, including theatre and boxercise classes to teach students about the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Matthew Shaw, advanced skills teacher designate for science at The Ruth Gorse Academy, has been teaching for six years. Shaw was nominated for his energetic approach to the planning and delivery of lessons, as well as inspiring students beyond the classroom through a leafcutter ant project that included taking students on a trip to Trinidad.

Gemma Singleton, science lead at The Beacon School, has been teaching for fourteen years. Singleton was nominated for her inspirational methods of teaching and contribution to development of science in and beyond her school. She regularly reflects on pedagogical developments on her blog and organises successful science-specific networking opportunities for teachers in the area.

All three teachers will now submit a short case study, describing how they have enhanced their students’ learning. The Award’s judging panel will also visit each of the shortlisted teachers whilst they are teaching in their schools.

The winner will be announced at the Society’s annual Education Awards Ceremony in June, and will receive £500 for themselves and up to £500 of free Oxford University Press resources for their school.