A WOMAN who won an Oxford University award for inspirational state school teachers believes giving karate lessons honed her classroom skills.

Stella Vassiliou, 37, won a 3rd Dan black belt in Shotokan Karate at the tender age of 11, and taught youngsters kicks, punches and blocks years before she ever set foot in a school classroom.

After graduating from Magdalen College in English Literature and gaining her PGCE there, Ms Vassiliou is an English teacher at Didcot Girls’ School.

Former pupil Rebecca Sutherland, 19, nominated her as an “inspirational teacher” after being inspired to follow in her footsteps and take up a place at Oxford University’s St Anne’s College, studying English Literature.

Ms Vassiliou, was among 12 teachers nominated from across the UK for the awards for teachers who helped pupils achieve places at Oxford.

She said: “I’m absolutely flattered, I’m overwhelmed.

“I’ve never even heard of the award before.

“The student who nominated me wrote a lovely nomination and it was very moving.”

Ms Vassiliou who comes from North London, attended an award ceremony at St Peter’s College on Friday, May 15 and was presented with a star-shaped trophy.

She said: “I think karate did help develop my teaching skills.

“Karate has been my longest-standing teaching job.”

Of the pupil who nominated her, Ms Vassiliou said: “She always had her heart set on studying English at a really good university.

“I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to help her do that.

“We had a lot of conversations about books in and out of class and she really appreciated the extra time I spent with her.

“She was a fantastic student and a real privilege to teach.”

Ms Vassiliou said she thought it was appropriate for Oxford University to recognise state school teachers.

“She said: “It’s really great that Oxford is willing to celebrate good teaching.

“It breaks down the barriers and helps make it clear that students at every type of school in the country who deserve a place at Oxford can achieve it.”

Vice Chancellor for Education Professor Sally Mapstone, who presented the awards, said: “I hope this award will send the message that students and universities recognise how valuable the role of a supportive teacher can be.”

Didcot Girls’ School sends on average two or three pupils to Oxford and Cambridge universities each year.