We are so proud of Shafina, our A Level Psychology teacher and LEGO Innovation, for being named as one of the top 50 finalists for the prestigious Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize 2023, in collaboration with UNESCO & Dubai Cares. This incredible recognition comes after a rigorous selection process, with Shafina standing out among over 7,000 nominations and applications from 130 countries worldwide. 

Shafina has been integral to creating the college environment that helps so many of our young people thrive. She has pioneered cutting-edge teaching approaches, captivating her learners by integrating LEGO into her lessons. She has spearheaded employer-led projects in collaboration with industry leaders, introducing her learners to the practical applications of psychology in the real world. 
  
Principal and CEO Geoffrey shares, ‘Shafina’s commitment to her learners and her passion for creativity in the classroom using tools such as Lego has supported her to overcome her own personal injuries and challenges in the education sector. This resilience and passion has stemmed into her own PhD research project which she is nearing completion at Imperial College London 'Thinkering with tech toys' is now being recognised across the world. I am sure you will join me in congratulating Shafina. Well done Shafina you are putting our UTC on the world map!’  

Shafina's dedication has also led to a funded PhD opportunity at Imperial College, where she explores experiential learning using tech toys like LEGO. To bolster her expertise, she travelled to Denmark for specialised training as a LEGO education trainer in robotics and STEM learning. This training laid the foundation for her to develop an innovative curriculum at her school, utilising LEGO as a versatile educational tool across various departments. 

Over the past five years, Shafina's pioneering program has empowered our sixth form to harness LEGO to develop their design engineering skills and teach primary schools throughout the local area in sessions tackling real world issues such as climate change and biodiversity. Shafina and her team of learners have contributed to the local community, unlocking the boundless potential of LEGO as an educational tool. 

Upon receiving this recognition Shafina shared, ‘I am truly humbled, grateful, and hugely honoured to be a top 50 finalist. I am one who always has something to say, but for this moment, I am at a loss. And also very emotional. Thank you so much, Varkey Foundation, and to all those who have knowingly or unknowingly shaped my teaching career, nominated me, listened to my constant push for change; and just everything in between - ESPECIALLY my wonderful students, past and present. You drive me.'" 

Shafina's exceptional journey is a testament to the transformative power of innovative teaching methods and the profound impact educators can have on shaping the future. We applaud her dedication and look forward to her continued contributions to our college and the wider world of education. 
 
Click to find out more about Shafina’s story