A biology teacher at Bedford College has been crowned the Gold Winner of the Outstanding New Teacher of the Year category at the ‘Oscars’ of the teaching profession.
Shona McFadyen won the award at the 2025 Pearson National Teaching Awards after being selected from thousands of nominees for her inspirational teaching and her contribution to the college and community.
Diagnosed with liver failure and cancer at a young age, Shona lived for years balancing her studies with the knowledge that she needed a life-saving transplant.
Throughout her treatment, Shona was determined to become a teacher and used it as an incentive to a full recovery.
Shona now champions innovative teaching approaches, from using interactive VR in science investigations to adapting lessons so they support students with varying needs.
Beyond the classroom, she founded the Impact Makers programme, a student-led charity that has raised hundreds of pounds for local care homes and hospices.
The Pearson National Teaching Awards are an annual celebration that honours the incredible achievements and transformative impact of educators.
Inspiring young people every single day
The annual awards ceremony held at The Brewery in Central London last weekend was hosted by TV presenter and broadcaster Gaby Roslin, bringing together Silver Winners across 16 categories, alongside industry peers, colleagues and special guests, including Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson.
Run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity, and sponsored by Pearson, the world’s lifelong learning company, the awards shine a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.
Speaking of the awards, Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, said: “Teachers and school staff are the heart of our education system, inspiring young people and helping them to achieve and thrive.
“These awards are a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact great educators have, because the path to national renewal runs through our schools.
“My warmest congratulations to all of this year’s winners and nominees – your hard work, care, and commitment shape futures, and I’m proud to work with you to break down barriers to opportunity.”
