Inspirational teachers recognised at national awards

Two inspirational teachers in Swansea are finalists in this year’s Welsh Government Professional Teaching Awards.

Chris Mitchell, from Pontarddulais Comprehensive School, is shortlisted in the Secondary School Teacher of the Year category while Dr Jonathan Thomas, of Ysgol Gyfun Gŵyr, is in the Pupils Award for Best Teacher.

Mr Mitchell teaches History, Humanities and Welsh Bac and is known at Pontarddulais for his innovative, highly successful and inclusive teaching approaches.

Dr Thomas, who is Head of Chemistry, is a former Ysgol Gyfun Gŵyr pupil, where he inspires learners of all ages to take an interest in Science and to achieve their full potential.

Both schools have said the recognition is thoroughly deserved and are wishing the teachers well for the final.

The winners will be announced at a special virtual ceremony on Sunday November 29 at 6pm which is broadcast on the Education Wales Facebook and YouTube channels.

Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Education Improvement, Learning and Skills, Cllr Jennifer Raynor, said: “I’d like to congratulate Mr Mitchell and Dr Thomas on being shortlisted for these prestigious awards and wish them the very best for the final.

“Swansea has many truly inspirational teachers who make a real difference to the lives of their pupils so it is wonderful to see two of these being recognised by the Welsh Government’s awards.”

You can watch the virtual final at: www.facebook.com/educationwales or www.youtube.com/c/AddysgCymruEducationWales

(Lead image – Chris Mitchell & Jonathan Thomas: Swansea Council)