I came into teaching after completing a PhD and post-doctoral research in molecular genetics. I have taught A level Chemistry, GCSE Biology and BTEC Science and (mostly) A level Biology and Human Biology. I have won quite a few teaching awards over the past 10 years - regionally, nationally and internationally - mainly for variety of teaching and learning methods. I received an MBE for services to science communication in 2010, in recognition of sharing good practice with a wide community of educators. I find teaching post-16 students stimulating, rewarding and invigorating!