A GLASGOW teacher is in the running for a national accolade which will be decided by public vote.

Natasia Nawaz, who is in charge of a primary one class at Sandaig Primary in Barlanark, was nominated for her “dedication, innovation and positive impact on learners.”

Natasia’s impressive teaching methods as part of a Glasgow City Council phonics initiative to ensure children can read, spell and write from the beginning of primary school, were filmed and shared city-wide.

Glasgow Times: Natasia with some of her pupils at Sandaig Primary

Headteacher Susan Clark said: “On returning from maternity leave, Natasia moved from teaching the older children to teaching P1 and she has really excelled.

“Natasia’s remarkable commitment to her learners goes above and beyond, ensuring the children’s academic and personal growth in a nurturing and inclusive environment.”

She added: “Her innovative teaching methods engage and inspire learners, making learning both effective and enjoyable. Natasia has a strong relationship with pupils and parents. As a result, the children’s attainment has gone through the roof.”

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Attendance at the school, which has 192 pupils, has increased to more than 90 percent from around 80 percent after the pandemic, says Ms Clark.

“Natasia is outside the gates every day chatting to parents so she can alleviate any fears and anxieties parents may have about sending their children to school,” she adds.

“Sandaig Primary is a small, nurturing and caring school. I’ve been here for two years and it is a fantastic school with a strong staff team.

"Natasia is an excellent candidate for Teacher of the Year, and in fact, all of our teachers are excellent candidates. They understand our children and our area and are the reason that Sandaig is the best school I’ve worked in.”

The competition, led by giftcard company Miconex and sponsored by group collecting platform GiftRound, runs until August 31. It is free to nominate and all teachers from across the UK are eligible to be included. The teacher with the most nominations wins.

The Teacher of the Year, and their school, will each win a £500 local gift card. One person who nominated the Teacher of the Year will also win a £250 local gift card.

Colin Munro, managing director of Miconex, said: “Our Teacher of the Year competition is designed to shine a light on schools and teachers who are going above and beyond to nurture, educate and inspire the next generation.

“Natasia’s story shows what a difference teachers make to young lives, helping children to not only learn but enjoy learning.”