Three teachers have been shortlisted for the School Biology Teacher of the Year Award 2018. 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 have been selected as finalists are Robert Isaacs from Tormead School, Guildford, Natalie Johnston from Rendcomb College, Rendcomb and Richard Spencer from Middlesbrough College, Middlesbrough.

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 exhibit outstanding commitment to teaching, inspiring the next generation of biologists and equipping students with the knowledge they’ll need in the next stages of their lives.”

Robert Isaacs, assistant head of sixth form and head of biology at Tormead School, has been teaching since 2009 and was nominated for enhancing teaching and learning not just at his school, but for pupils all over the world through his own bioscience website and YouTube channel.

FLTR: Robert Isaacs, Natalie Johnston and Richard Spencer

Natalie Johnston, head of biology and key stage four at Rendcomb College has been teaching for 12 years. Johnston was nominated for her tireless efforts to seek out best practice in the classroom, including producing unique resources and hosting INSET training for heads of biology.

Richard Spencer, head of science at Middlesbrough College, has been teaching for 26 years and was nominated for the wide variety of imaginative teaching and learning opportunities he makes available for students, including through song, dance, role play, and e-learning.

The three finalists will now each submit a short case study, highlighting how they have enriched their students’ learning. Each will also be visited by the Award’s judging panel.

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