Euthan Newman, who teaches Health and Social Care at South Thames College, was recognised for his dedication to his students at the inaugural National BTEC Awards in London where he won 'Outstanding BTEC Teacher or Tutor of the Year'..  

Euthan came to the profession after spending years working as a Care Manager. Originally from Jamaica, he also spent time in New York before settling in London. His colleagues say he brings his experience from living in the Bronx and central London to the classroom, not only by appreciating the diversity of the student body, but also setting a powerful example to his students by giving real life examples. Euthan has five children and three grandchildren.

Euthan’s line manager at South Thames College, Fiona Johnstone, nominated him for the award saying, “Euthan is adored by the students. A lot of our learners don’t have a positive male role model in their lives and he is a consistent, caring, jovial and professional man that all, including staff, look up to. In 26 years of my career I have never worked with a more genuine and inspiring teacher. He is changing people’s lives for the better.”

A spokeswoman for publisher Pearson, who created the awards, said: “The school keeps cereal available for him as he is in by 8am each day to do his marking. He has a two-day turnaround marking policy as he feels his learners need to know how they have done asap.”

The ceremony was hosted by BBC Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills, and among the judges was TES editor Gerard Kelly. John Hayes, Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning was also in attendance.

July 20, 2011