Super teacher scoops top awards

A Wythenshawe teacher has put her school on the map after winning two prestigious teaching awards.

Elizabeth Butler, 25, a science teacher from Parklands High School won the top regional prize in the celebrated Teaching Awards and now goes onto the national final. She also won a national Teach First Award for her work in maths, science and ICT.

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 won these awards, she thoroughly deserves the honour."

The Teaching Awards celebrate excellence and share expertise in education. Elizabeth was one of four regional finalists nominated for 'Outstanding New Teacher of the Year.' As the winner, she will now go forward to the live televised final which will be hosted in London on Sunday, October 19th.

The national Teach First awards were hosted by Ed Balls, the Secretary of State for the Department of Children, Schools and Families last week and Elizabeth won the Garnett Excellence Award in Maths, Science and ICT.

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 are delighted that she has won these awards."

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

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