The Royal Society of Biology's School Biology Teacher of the Year Award is now open for nominations.

The award is open to all teachers who are working with students aged 11-18 years old, teaching pre-university level biology programmes of study, and currently employed in a UK based school or college.

The winner will receive £500 for themselves and £500 of Oxford University Press resources for their school in addition to prizes from UK 3B Scientific Ltd and the National Science Learning Centre.

We are looking for teachers who display the following qualities:

• Outstanding and inspirational teaching of biology
• Inspiring pupils beyond the classroom by supporting high quality extra-curricular learning opportunities both in and outside of the classroom setting
• Delivering inspirational INSET training for colleagues to share best practice in the teaching of biology and spreading their enthusiasm for the subject
• Influencing the teaching and learning of biology beyond their own institution in other schools or educational settings

Dr Mark Downs, chief executive of the Royal Society of Biology, said:
“Excellent teachers have a profound and positive effect on their students’ learning; widening their students’ knowledge and skills base, increasing their self-confidence and raising their aspirations."

Last year's winner was Dr Paul Weeks, a teacher at Oxford High School. The judges were particularly impressed with Paul’s skilful use of a context-driven and problem solving approach which fully engaged the pupils, made them think, and was absolutely successful in securing effective learning.

Nominations will close on Friday 18th December 2015.