Super teacher nominated for two awards

A Wythenshawe teacher is well on the way to putting her school on the map after being nominated for two prestigious national teaching awards.

Elizabeth Butler, 25, a science teacher from Parklands High School is a regional finalist in the Teaching Awards, and a national finalist in the Teach First Awards.

Elizabeth, who was born and grew up in America, joined Parklands High School a year and a half ago as part of the Teach First scheme which selects, trains, places and supports top graduates to work in challenging schools, and has quickly made her mark as a motivational and inspiring teacher.

Parklands High School Headteacher, Phil Fitzpatrick, says: "Elizabeth is a truly outstanding science teacher. She teaches with an enthusiasm and dynamism that encourages children of all abilities to progress.

"Her commitment to the pupils is not just restricted to the classroom as she also runs a Japanese club, a girls basketball club and organises residential science camps to support lower level achievers.

"We're all absolutely thrilled that she has been nominated for these awards, she thoroughly deserves the accolade."

The Teaching Awards celebrate excellence and share expertise in education. Elizabeth is one of four regional finalists nominated for 'Outstanding New Teacher of the Year.' The ceremony will take place on Thursday, June 19th in Liverpool and if Elizabeth is successful at this heat, she will go forward to the live televised final which will be hosted in London on Sunday, October 19th.

The Teach First awards also take place on Thursday, June 19th in London with guest speaker Ed Balls, the Secretary of State for the Department of Children, Schools and Families. Elizabeth has been nominated for the Garnett Excellence Award in Maths, Science and ICT and is one of four national finalists.

Councillor Sheila Newman, Executive Member Children's Services, Manchester City Council, says: "Manchester has a wealth of enthusiastic, motivated and passionate teachers that inspire and encourage children to reach their full potential.

"Elizabeth is clearly an exceptional teacher committed to bringing out the very best in her pupils. She is the kind of teacher that many of her pupils will remember with warmth and gratitude in the years to come.

"We wish her the very best of luck with each of her awards.

" Elizabeth says of her nominations: "I'm surprised, but honoured to be nominated for these two awards. I enjoy every day teaching the students and working with the dedicated staff at Parklands."

Media contact:

Maggie Doyle, tel: 0161 234 4610.