A dedicated teacher has won a national award for going the extra mile to ensure her students get the best education.

Shahin Karmali, a teacher at Al-Islah School, was hailed the Association of Muslim Schools, AMS, UK’s Secondary School Teacher of the Year at a special awards ceremony.

Judges, led by Tauheedul Islam Girls High School headteacher Hamid Patel, said Shahin’s ‘enthusiasm’ motivated her students and that her ‘dedication goes beyond the classroom.’ The AMS UK Independent Schools Awards 2011 is an annual ceremony which recognises the hard work of teachers working in independent Islamic schools across the country.

Shahin, who received the award that was sponsored by Tauheedul Islam Girls High School, said: “I’d like to thank Allah for giving me this opportunity, for being part of this ceremony and for winning this award.

“I would also like to thank Al-Islah School who have always supported me and who provide such a lovely and friendly environment to work in, including the students who still motivate me and provide me with unique inspiration every day. It’s never the same day twice.

“And lastly I’d like to thank the organising committee, also those present, my colleagues, and my parents for being part of this special day.”

Shahin was commended for organising activities such as a five-day Hajj role-play programme, a visit to the Interfaith Council and a world themed cooking competition in her own time.

Other winners came from schools in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leicester.

Secondary School of the Year was Tawhid Boys School, London, Primary School of the Year was Al-hijrah Primary School, Birmingham, Transformational Leader of the Year was Mona Mohamed from Manchester Islamic High School For Girls, Primary School Teacher of the Year was Saira Hanif from Al-aqsa Primary School, Leicester, Non-Teaching Staff of the Year was Nagina Moughel from Al-hijrah Primary School, Birmingham.

Lead judge Mufti Patel added: "The quality of nominations was extremely encouraging. I would like to thank all colleagues who made nominations for doing so.

“It shows that independent Muslim schools are going from strength to strength and are appreciated by their students, staff and parents."