National Teaching Award for Tendring Technology College History Teacher

Congratulations to Richard Rodd of Tendring Technology College, which became an AET Academy in September, for gaining the National Award for History Teacher of the Year 2011.

In a packed West End theatre, in an event televised on Sunday 30 October by BBC 2 and hosted by Lenny Henry, Richard received his Award from comedian Al Murray (pictured). Richard was the ninth winner from Tendring Technology College since the Awards were introduced in 1999.

His citation read...

Richard Rodd is an inspirational and energetic history teacher whose capacity to bring the past to life is 'awesome'. For example, he casts students as MI5 agents investigating the murder of Thomas Becket or as police working on the Jack the Ripper case. His 'piece de resistance' will be WW1 trenches and a WW2 Anderson shelter being constructed in a new Victory Garden at Tendring Technology College; Richard's grandfather is a farmer who advises and lends his tractor. This comprehensive is in the top 5 per cent for added value. Students aspire and work hard because they're 'completely immersed' in history and are kept on tenterhooks by this exciting teacher. Nominated by a dozen students and parents, Mr Rodd's passion for historical sites and visits is legendary. His GCSE classes achieved 96% grades A*-C this summer and at least one ex student is becoming a history teacher.

Congratulations also to Chris Collins from TTC who was named regional winner for the Science Teacher of the Year (East of England), and his colleague, Neil Powell, Outstanding New Teacher (East of England).