A “PASSIONATE” science teacher is celebrating after receiving national recognition for his work in the school community.

Matthew King, 34, picked up first place in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (Stem) community engagement award, which recognises outstanding work in those subjects.

Mr King, a biology teacher at Westcliff High School for Girls, won the prize for his work with fellow teachers and students, including his willingness to share ideas.

He said the award was the “cherry on top of the cake” in a career he has described as “amazing”.

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He said: “I am a passionate biology teacher of 13 years.

“I have taught at St Martins in Brentwood, FitzWimarc in Rayleigh, and currently work at Westcliff High School for Girls.

“I am a father of two fantastic little people, Elizabeth, and Christopher, and I couldn’t do it without them or the support of my wife, Rebecca King.

“At university I was given the opportunity in my last year to take part in the STEM ambassadors programme, I enjoyed being in a school environment, so much that I decided to complete a PGCE and 13 years later, I am still loving it.

“To win the award for just doing a job that I love is the cherry on the cake for my career so far.

“I love sharing and discussing best practice with everyone, regardless of hierarchy - all too often in teaching only the select few are listened to, the Stem community removes this as everyone is equally valued and respected.”

The STEM National Teaching Awards recognise teachers who go above and beyond within their schools.

The 2022 awards were held in York last week.

Alongside Mr King, Jude Nzemeke, from Southend High School for Boys, also picked up an award.

Mr Nzemeke is leader of Year 11 and head of Computing and IT at the school.

He won the award for excellence in Stem teaching secondary award for the South England.

This award recognises teachers who have developed aspects of Stem education within their secondary schools.