SHE organises revision sessions in McDonald’s and makes a beeline for those who tell her they do not like science.

Now Caroline Molyneux’s dedication to inspiring the next generation has seen her as one of just three teachers nationwide shortlisted for the prestigious 2014 School Biology Teacher of the Year Award.

The award recognises the “very best and most inspiring biology teachers”.

Sharples School teacher Miss Molyneux said: “I was put forward for the award at my old school — Balshaw in Leyland.

“They kept it from me until I was shortlisted. I’m just one of three people — it was a big surprise.

“The assessors visited Sharples High School and spoke to the pupils — it is always nice to be nominated but it’s fantastic that this is because of student nominations.”

The assistant headteacher has been teaching for nine years. Before that she was a post-graduate researcher at the University of Molecular Microbiology where she found she enjoyed teaching.

Now she teaches biology, chemistry and astronomy. Miss Molyneux is also an educational leader for the National Space Agency.

She said: “If anyone tells me they don’t like science, I will find out why. Here we make science exciting and interesting.”

Miss Molyneux said: “Balshaw is an outstanding school and Sharples is on its way to being outstanding. I wanted to be part of that.”

As well as in the classroom, Miss Molyneux, who has been teaching for nine years, can be found in McDonald’s in Astley Bridge at the weekends staging revision sessions for GCSE pupils.

She said: “We stage revision sessions in school and we started this one a month ago. It has been really successful. It is quite relaxed and informal and the pupils stay for quite a bit.

“Some have their breakfast or their lunch, and there are ice-creams on hand as we look through past papers.”

Miss Molyneux added: “I think teaching is a vocation, and not just a job. I love it and to support the children in helping them get the most out of their five years in school.”

Dr Mark Downs chief executive of the Society of Biology said: “Excellent teachers have a profound positive effect on their students’ learning, career choices and aspirations.

“It is rewarding to know that once again, the entrants for this award are teaching outstanding and innovative lessons which inspire their students.”