'Outstanding' Chesterfield teacher scoops gold award on The One Show

Alex Bramey, who teaches at Spire Junior School, was presented with the Pearson National Teaching Gold Award on television’s The One Show last night (Tuesday, November 24).

He said: “It is an absolute honour to be recognised. Teaching is not just a profession; it is a way of life, we simply never switch off, whether it's planning and resourcing a lesson, delivering food parcels for a family in need, or eating crickets in assembly to encourage your class to read. I am fortunate to have a very supportive head teacher who allows his staff to try new things, learn from mistakes and lets the creativity blossom.”

As one of the most innovative, enthusiastic and creative teachers in the country, Alex has bought a broken vending machine off eBay, repaired it and filled it with free books and hot chocolate as rewards for pupils. He has used a tennis ball catapult for pupils to run after and answer revision questions, and even endures ‘Bushtucker trials’ if his class hit their goals, eating crickets and mealworm in assemblies.

He has also organised the Pride of Chesterfield awards to work with the local community and help pupils understand the world around them.

Alex said: “I have always wanted to be a teacher. To make a difference to children’s lives and help prepare them for their future. I guess part of me just never wants to grow up – as the staff at school say – I’m just a big kid. Now more than ever it is so important to celebrate and recognise teaching as a profession; during these unprecedented times teachers across the nation have gone above and beyond to ensure the education and wellbeing of children continues.”

Presenter of The One Show, Alex Jones said: “We are so thrilled to have Alex on the show. We all know the value of a great teacher, and Alex has proven himself to be both outstanding and inspirational.

Rod Bristow, the president of Pearson UK, said: “Congratulations to Alex and all of our wonderful Gold Award winners on their success. They have all displayed the most fantastic dedication to this superb profession and truly deserve to have their hard work recognised in this way.”