An Egyptologist-turned-English teacher has scooped a national award, just two years after qualifying.

The award recognises the transformational contribution of teachers in empowering young people through public speaking and debating.

She was chosen for her success in setting up a debate club at the school to help pupils improve their communication skills.

A spokesperson for the charity Now Teach, which helped Jo to make the career switch, said:

“Jo is a unique career-changer who brings early two decades of professional and lived experience to the classroom after working in archaeology and digital learning. Last year she also won a Pearson’s National Teaching Award.

“Oracy, the ability to articulate ideas and engage with others, is rarely prioritised in school - something Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, has vowed to change. Research has shown that speaking and listening ability significantly impacts children's progression in other subjects and their employability later in life. A study by the British Chambers of Commerce found communication is the top entry-level skill required by employers.”

Commenting on the award, Jo said: "I feel very honoured and know from experience that oracy is power. I can't really think of many jobs where you don't have to be a good communicator.

"One of our young people has already secured a part-time job after impressing employers with her ability to interact with customers during a work placement.

"When I first spoke to Now Teach about the possibility of becoming a teacher as a career changer, I felt very apprehensive about my suitability and whether I had left it too late to retrain. Their support and encouragement and expert guidance is a big part of why I now feel confident in the classroom. I can't believe how lucky I am to be where I am now”.

Now Teach helps career changers in England to retrain as teachers. It says this approach is “resulting in better recruitment and retention rates than the national average – especially to STEM subjects”.

Mr Jon Hebblethwaite, Headteacher of Jack Hunt School said: “We are incredibly proud of Jo’s achievement. Developing oracy is crucial in empowering our students, giving them the confidence and communication skills they need to thrive both in school and beyond. It directly supports Jack Hunt School's mission of improving life chances, ensuring every student is prepared for the opportunities and challenges ahead."