Prestigious Institute of Physics award for Grange Academy physics teacher

The IOP Teachers of Physics Awards celebrate outstanding classroom practice in the teaching of physics and recognise the success of secondary school teachers in the UK and Ireland who, by their dedication and excellence in the classroom, have raised the state of physics teaching in their school.

Understanding and enjoying science can lead to a rewarding career, to improved analytical thinking skills, a life-long interest or all of these. An inspiring teacher is crucial to supporting this.

Physics and physicists have a vital role to play in solving some of the 21^st century’s biggest challenges, such as responding to climate change, ensuring personal and online security and supporting an ageing population. Without dedicated physics teachers we would have far less physics-based research and industry, and the world would not benefit from the contributions made by physicists to the continually expanding knowledge of the world in which we live.

The IOP is the UK and Ireland’s professional body for physicists. Its members come from across the physics community, including academia, research, industry, and education.

Committed to working with teachers of physics at all levels, and across the schools landscape, the IOP has a strong track record of supporting teaching in schools: from its teacher training scholarship programme and comprehensive programme of ongoing professional development, to online teacher support and resources.

Chris Shepherd, Strategic Lead (Recruitment & Retraining) at the IOP, said: "I am delighted to be recognising and applauding Kayleigh Williamson. Each of this year’s winners has, through their skill and personal commitment, made a significant positive difference to the teaching of physics in their school, the student experience and the level of student achievement. On behalf of the Institute of Physics, I warmly congratulate all of them and thank them for their dedication to their students, their school and their subject."

Councillor Elaine Cowan, East Ayrshire Council’s Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, Education and Skills and Culture, who was joined by local member Councillor James Adams and Head Teacher Scott Robertson said: “What a wonderful achievement to be recognised by the IOP with a Teacher of Physics Award and I was delighted to offer congratulations to Kayleigh Williamson on behalf of the Council. Encouraging our young people to choose, and to enjoy, STEM subjects is vital as we prepare them for the world of work. There are skill shortages across Scotland within key STEM areas and inspirational teachers like Kayleigh are ensuring that our young people have the skills and knowledge to succeed.”

Kayleigh Williamson said: "I am incredibly humbled and grateful to have been given this honour by the Institute of Physics. Throughout my career, making Physics accessible and achievable to everyone I work with has always been my goal. As a teacher, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing your pupils enjoying your subject whilst guiding them on their learning journey. I aim to foster an encouraging and inclusive environment in my class, where every one of my pupils can celebrate all their achievements with no barriers. Knowing that I have possibly inspired former pupils into careers in STEM, is a feeling you can never explain, but it does make any tricky days in this job fade away to nothing."

Kayleigh Williamson receives a prize of £1,000; a paperweight award and a certificate.