A music teacher was celebrating today after he scooped a top award at the equivalent of the teaching Oscars.

Michael Murfin, who teaches at Castle View School, in Meppel Avenue, Canvey, said he was still stunned by the news he had beaten thousands of other staff members to the coveted Guardian Outstanding New Teacher Award.

Excellent teacher - Michael Murfin received the teaching equivalent of an Oscar for his work at Castle View School, Canvey Picture: NICK ANSELL

Speaking at the ceremony held at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Cambridge, he said: "I am still in a state of shock. I feel stunned.

"I am very proud and very pleased but it has not really sunk in yet.

"I have this huge plaque now and I also have won £2,000 and some ICT equipment for the school which is fantastic.

"I worked for a record company before I joined Castle View but I always wanted to go into teaching, it was just a case of when.

"I have worked hard but I also really enjoy it. I love to see the kids enjoying themselves."

Headteacher Russell Sullivan, who nominated 33-year-old Mr Murfin for the top accolade and who was also at the award ceremony, was delighted at his protg's success.

He said: "I am absolutely delighted for Michael. None of us knew he was going to win until they called out his name and he had to go up on to the stage. He was dumbstruck."

"I am very proud of him and the equipment and money he has won, which must be worth around £4,000, will all go into the music department he has worked so hard for."

Published Tuesday, June 24, 2003

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