Teaching Award Successes at New Hall

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There were celebrations at New Hall, on Friday 30 April, with the news that Dr Thomas, Head of Science, had been selected as only one of 4 finalists in the London and East Anglia regions for the National Secondary School Teacher of the Year Award 2010, a prestigious award for teachers in the UK.

In total, three teachers from New Hall School were commended in this year’s awards, following nominations from students they teach. Pictured with Dr Thomas are two New Hall teachers who received special certificates of commendation, Mrs Walker, teacher of Geography & Deputy Head of Sixth Form and Mrs Smith, Head of English as an Additional Language.



Following testimonials from staff and students, Dr Thomas, beat 150 teachers who had been nominated in the region, to proceed to the final stage of judging last Friday. Two assessors visited New Hall for the afternoon to interview Dr Thomas, staff and students and to observe Dr Thomas teaching a forensic science lesson.

Students nominated Dr Thomas for his enthusiastic teaching, his humour and his dedication to helping each individual realise their potential. One student commented: “The fun activities, combined with his style of teaching, make even the most complicated topics understandable”. Another student said: “Dr Thomas has made GCSE Physics an exciting and interesting subject. I have completely changed my view on Physics since I have had Dr Thomas as my teacher; I used to find it difficult but I am now hoping to do it for A Level - he truly deserves the award.” Other students summed up their appreciation of and respect for Dr Thomas, saying: “He is a legend!” and “His lessons are awesome!”.

Dr Thomas has been invited to the finalists’ awards ceremony in June 2010, where the results will be announced. Dr Thomas will receive a commendation, distinction or Plato (the Secondary School Teacher of the Year Award).

We wish him every success.