TOP teacher David Teasdale proved he is a cut above the rest after success in a national competition.

Mr Teasdale, who teaches Biology at Bolton School Boys’ Division, impressed judges in the prestigious Royal Society of Biology Teacher of the Year Awards with his enthusiasm and creative approach to inspiring his pupils.

The awards seeks to identify and recognise the very best and most inspiring Biology teachers in 11-18 education in the UK and Mr Teasdale was named runner-up.

“From the innovative use of e-learning to provide effective methods of self-study and prompt feedback, to the establishment of an exotic animal club and a slime mould club, David uses his passion and enthusiasm for biology teaching to engage, motivate and inspire his pupils," the judges stated.

"He generously shares his ideas and expertise as a Biology teacher with local schools and in a variety of educational contexts on a national and international level.”

Following the awards, Mr Teasdale, who is a former Bolton School pupil himself, said: “It was a tremendous honour to receive such recognition from the Royal Society.

"I would like to thank the school and especially my department for all their support. None of the projects which I have been praised for were solo efforts — all relied on the support of others.

"In particular, the Biology technicians Julie Hartley and the retiring Jill Pledger, often unsung heroes, deserve to be singled out for praise. Almost everything the Biology department does would be impossible without their help”.

Dr Mark Downs, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Biology, said: “Excellent teachers have a profound and positive effect on their students’ learning. The entrants for this year’s award are teaching outstanding and innovative lessons which inspire and enthuse their students.”

The awards ceremony was held at the historic Royal Institution in London. Fifteen scientists associated with Royal Institution have won Nobel prizes,including Michael Faraday and Sir Humphry Davy.

Ten chemical elements, including sodium ,were discovered there, the electric generator was devised in the building and much of the early work on the atomic structure of crystals was carried out within it. There is still a working laboratory at the Institution and the Christmas lectures, televised on the BBC, are filmed in the Faraday Lab which is where the awards ceremony was held.