SBUSixth Business & Finance teacher Martina Ayokunle has been awarded one of seven highly competitive Technical Teaching Fellowships for 2025/26.
Martina was awarded the Fellowship for her work looking at the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for inclusive and technical learning. Through her role at the Sixth Form and wider research, she is focusing on embedding AI meaningfully across technical disciplines while ensuring accessibility remains central, in particular for learners with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Alongside her role teaching Business & Finance on a variety of qualifications at SBUSixth, Martina also serves as the Sixth Form’s AI Strategy Lead. In this role she is working to develop effective and responsible use of AI in the Sixth Form and across the LSBU Group.
Following the ceremony, Martina commented: “It is a true honour to receive the award, which for me is not just a celebration but a reminder of the responsibility that comes with shaping how AI is integrated into education. I am grateful for the recognition and support from colleagues, and energised for the work ahead.”
These prestigious awards are made jointly by the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) and Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851. Martina was presented with the Fellowship, along with the six other recipients from across the UK, at a ceremony at the Royal Society in central London, pictured below.
These Fellowships are awarded annually to enable leading educators to develop knowledge transfer and exchange activities, shape effective practice at national and regional events and contribute to thought leadership. Fellows also contribute a final report to engage and motivate technical education practitioners in their specialist subject areas. The Fellows also become alumni of the Royal Commission, providing them with further support to drive quality improvement in STEM teaching and training.
Update: Martina has now had an article on AI in education published in FE Week: read here
