A NORTH-EAST teacher has been named as one of 12 nationwide 'inspirational teachers' by Oxford University as part of an awards scheme designed to recognise excellent teachers from state schools and colleges.

Peter Bardon, who teaches chemistry at The Hermitage Academy in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, was nominated by former student Zoe Walmsley, now a first-year student studying biochemistry at St John’s College.

The teachers were recognised for their efforts supporting pupils who were successful in getting places at Oxford. The teachers were all nominated by current first-year Oxford students.

Mr Bardon said: “It was amazing to read the words Zoe wrote about me and it really touched me – which is not an easy thing to do. It is wonderful to get recognition for something that I feel is an honour to do – which is to work with fantastic young people to realise their dream.

“I do remember asking her class when she was in year 7 if any of them had a clue what they wanted to do as a career and straight away Zoe said a biochemist. This did not change all the way though her school life here and I do feel privileged to have been even a small part in helping Zoe achieve her goal.”

Zoe said: “Mr Bardon always went the extra mile to ensure everyone in the class achieved their targeted grades. His belief in everyone was contagious. Chemistry became the highlight of my timetable due to his enthusiasm for the subject. I know he will continue his inspiring work so that more people from a background like mine will aim high and achieve their dreams.

“The confidence Mr Bardon installed in me has brought me to Oxford and his infectious enthusiasm for science will take me far beyond higher education and for that, I cannot say thank you enough.”