Mairi Godley

Mairi Godley, an exceptional educator, has dedicated her career to inspiring students through her innovative teaching methods, commitment to sustainability, and tireless efforts to foster global citizenship. Teaching at St. Margaret's Academy in Scotland, Mairi excels in French, Spanish, Religious Education (RE), and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). Her diverse expertise and passion for education have earned her recognition as a leader in her field. 

Mairi’s journey into teaching was shaped by her desire to help students discover their strengths and embrace challenges. Her dedication to professional development led her to learn Spanish through immersive training in Spain and gain qualifications in Religious Education. These efforts have enabled her to enrich the curriculum and broaden her students’ horizons. 

Mairi’s teaching philosophy emphasises resilience, confidence, and independence. She employs a variety of methods, including explicit instruction, scaffolding, and flexible grouping, to ensure every student is supported and challenged. Beyond the classroom, she organises extracurricular activities, such as meditation and running clubs, to promote mental and physical well-being. Her Aim High initiative, offering additional academic and emotional support, exemplifies her commitment to helping students succeed. 

A key highlight of Mairi’s career is her work in sustainability education. She spearheaded a whole-school Learning for Sustainability project, which gained prominence during COP26, where her students presented innovative solutions to environmental issues. Under her leadership, the school’s Eco Group achieved Green Flag Status, and students participated in international initiatives like the 1.5 Max Climate Change Summit, collaborating with schools from Malawi and Nepal. Mairi also facilitated workshops on waste management and climate change, embedding these vital topics into the curriculum. 

Mairi’s passion for global citizenship is evident in her efforts to celebrate cultural diversity and language skills. She established partnerships with the Polish community, enabling students to earn recognition for their proficiency in Polish through the Languages for Life and Work Award. This initiative culminated in a celebration attended by students, parents, and the Polish Consulate, showcasing her dedication to inclusivity and cross-cultural understanding. 

Innovation is central to Mairi’s approach. She created the Language in Work initiative, connecting students with real-world applications of language skills through collaborations with VisitScotland and the Whisky Heritage Centre. During the pandemic, she organised virtual work experiences, ensuring students could still gain valuable insights into the professional world. Her efforts to modernise assessments and integrate digital tools further demonstrate her forward-thinking approach. 

Mairi’s impact extends beyond the school community. She collaborates with local organisations like West Lothian Litter Pickers and Learn with Leavenseat, involving students in environmental stewardship activities. Her leadership in international projects, such as Connecting Classrooms, underscores her commitment to preparing students for a globalised world. 

Through her uncompromising pursuit of excellence, Mairi has not only transformed the lives of her students but also contributed to the broader teaching profession. Her unwavering belief in the power of education to shape a better future makes her an inspiring role model for educators worldwide.