New College Worcester (NCW) is delighted to share that Phil Brookes, Head of Maths, has been recognised as one of the top five teacher mentors in the UK by Best Practice Network (BPN), a leading training provider for Initial Teacher Training.
The recognition came after a trainee teacher nominated Phil for the exceptional support and guidance he provided as her in-school mentor during her teacher training programme. Following the nomination and review process, Best Practice Network selected Phil as one of the top five mentors nationally for this academic year.
In addition to leading the Maths department at NCW, Phil is a highly respected specialist in the field of vision impairment education. As a Qualified Teacher of Children and Young People with Vision Impairments (QTVI), he possesses an extensive knowledge of accessible mathematics and Braille maths.
Phil is well known within the vision impairment education sector for his expertise in transcribing and adapting mathematical resources into Braille. He regularly supports schools, colleges and other educational organisations with the transcription of complex mathematics papers and materials, helping to ensure that blind and vision-impaired learners can access the curriculum on an equal footing with their peers.
Will Stark, Assistant Principal, said:
“We are delighted to see Phil’s commitment to supporting and developing new teachers recognised on a national level. Effective mentoring plays a vital role in helping early career teachers grow in confidence and develop their practice, and Phil consistently goes above and beyond to support colleagues. Being recognised as one of the top five mentors in the country by Best Practice Network is a fantastic achievement and one that is thoroughly deserved.”
Mentoring plays a vital role in teacher development, helping trainee and early career teachers build confidence, refine their classroom practice and develop the skills needed to succeed in the profession. Phil’s dedication to supporting colleagues reflects the collaborative and supportive culture that exists across NCW.
This national recognition not only highlights Phil’s strengths as a mentor but also celebrates the wealth of specialist expertise that exists within NCW. His contribution to mathematics education, Braille accessibility and teacher development continues to benefit not only NCW students and staff, but the wider vision impairment education community.
Congratulations to Phil on this outstanding and well-deserved achievement. We are incredibly proud to see his expertise, professionalism and commitment to developing others recognised on a national stage.
