Rochdale teacher praised by educational charity

Michelle Uddin of Falinge Park High School

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Michelle Uddin of Falinge Park High School has been recognised by the SHINE educational charity for her inventive approach to teaching.

Michelle’s project uses geocaching – large-scale treasure hunts using GPS – in a bid to improve literacy and numeracy skills among 11-14 year-olds.

"I was so excited to have won this opportunity to run a project that will not only improve the literacy and numeracy levels of our pupils, but it will also teach our young people about the history of Rochdale, promoting the exploration of our town in a modern and exciting way.

"I wouldn’t have been able to run this project if it wasn’t for the generous opportunity that SHINE have provided for teachers across the county. I feel proud that I have been successful in representing our school, the pupils I work with are energetic and enthusiastic, it only seems fair that I can reward them with the same attitude when it comes to teaching."

A total of £124,000 in funding from SHINE, divided amongst all 11 winning initiatives, will enable the teachers to run one-year pilot programmes.

The projects will begin in September 2012 and are expected to benefit more than 1,700 disadvantaged students.

At the end of the school year, the most successful programmes will be considered for longer-term funding for further expansion and development.

Jim O’Neill, Chairman of SHINE, said: “This is the first year of Let Teachers SHINE and we were delighted by the superb response we received for this new initiative.

“The winning schemes come from primary and secondary schools nationwide, from Southampton to Stockport, and are all worthy winners.

"I am intrigued by the very new ideas we have seen and offer my warmest congratulations to them all.

"Everybody at SHINE is looking forward to seeing how these pilots perform on the ground over the next 12 months.”