A Rhondda Cynon Taf headteacher has received the Silver Award in the UK Headteacher of the Year category (Primary and Secondary Schools) at the annual Pearson National Teaching Awards in recognition of his ‘dedication to education.’
David Jenkins, Acting Executive Headteacher at Ysgol Ty Coch School, Tonteg, and Park Lane School, Aberdare, said he is deeply honoured to be announced as a Silver winner in both the primary and secondary school Headteacher of the Year awards and to be recognised in this way.
In 2020, Mr Jenkins was also crowned Headteacher of the Year at the Professional Teaching Awards Cymru 2020 and is keen to pay tribute to all the learners and staff associated with both schools.
Councillor Joy Rosser, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet Member for Education and Inclusion Services, said: “David Jenkins is an exceptional headteacher, and having already been recognised at a Welsh level, he now has UK-wide recognition at the Pearson National Teaching Awards.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Mr Jenkins and thank him for all of his hard work and dedication. We are so fortunate to have so many headteachers and teachers within Rhondda Cynon Taf who are guiding our young learners and helping them reach their full potential.”
“David Jenkins is a credit to his education profession and to all our wonderful teaching staff and schools support staff across our County Borough who have done so much for the benefit of their pupils during this global pandemic.”
Described by event organisers as the ‘Oscars of the teaching profession,’ the Pearson National Teaching Awards were first established in 1998 and have since become an annual celebration of excellence in education, recognising the amazing work of teachers across the UK.
With 15 awards categories covering the primary, secondary and Further Education sectors, open to schools and colleges in Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, everyone at both Ysgol Ty Coch School and Park Lane School are delighted with Mr Jenkins’ national success.
David Jenkins, Headteacher of the Year, said: “This is such a huge honour for me, but I accept the award on behalf of everyone at both schools, who have worked so hard during exceptional circumstances this past 15 months. I am so proud of what we have all achieved.
“Both schools are outstanding organisations which make a real difference to the lives of all who learn and work there. I am immensely proud of everyone associated with both schools.”
Judges at the Pearson National Teaching Awards recognised all of Mr Jenkins’s hard work and dedication throughout the global pandemic, describing him as an inspirational headteacher who ensures the needs of the entire school community are at the forefront of any decision.
They also said he is highly respected by everyone who works with him and noted that his ‘dedication to education’ has been vital to creating school environments which are highly nurturing and ensures that every child, young adult, and staff member has access to incredible opportunities.
He always puts the well-being of his staff, pupils and their parents at the heart of everything he does. He excels in promoting pupil voice, and also integrates staff in running a friendly and effective school environment.
The 2021 Pearson National Teaching Awards celebrate the finest teachers across the UK, nominated by pupils, parents and colleagues. David Jenkins now goes forward as a finalist for the overall Gold Award, which will be announced at a special event in London on November 28.
Posted on 28/07/2021