The professional teaching awards cymru 2019 school business manager bursar winner, Gwyn Jones from Ysgol Eirias in Conwy, exemplified the unsung heroes behind successful schools. These awards celebrated exceptional contributions across Welsh education, shining a light on diverse roles that drive pupil success1.
What are the Professional Teaching Awards Cymru?
The Professional Teaching Awards Cymru are national honors organized by the Welsh Government to recognize outstanding teachers, support staff, and education leaders. Established to celebrate dedication and innovation, they highlight roles that enhance learning and wellbeing in Welsh schools.
Why the 2019 awards were significant
The 2019 awards, the third edition, introduced the Youth Work in Schools category, reflecting a broader focus on pupil support. With high-caliber nominations, the spotlight on the professional teaching awards cymru 2019 school business manager bursar winner underscored the critical role of administrative excellence in education.
Overview of the 2019 Awards
Background of the awards (purpose & impact)
These awards aim to boost morale, share best practices, and affirm the Welsh Government’s investment in education. Winners inspire peers and contribute to a world-class system, with lasting impacts on schools and communities.
Ceremony date, host, location
Held on 19 May 2019 at the elegant Soughton Hall in Flintshire (near Mold), the event was co-hosted by comedian Tudur Owen and Education Minister Kirsty Williams.
Wedding Venues Wales | Soughton Hall | Weddings venue Hire
Full List of 2019 Winners
Here are the winners from the Professional Teaching Awards Cymru 2019, with their schools and notable achievements:
- Outstanding New Teacher Gruff Arfon – Ysgol Tryfan, Bangor Praised for innovative, inclusive teaching and inspiring all pupils with his calm approach.
Gruff Arfon – The Pearson National Teaching Awards
- Youth Work in Schools Amy Bolderson – Pontypridd High School, Pontypridd Recognized for exceptional impact on young lives through dedicated youth work.
- Supporting Teachers and Learners Emma Gray – Bassaleg School, Newport Honored for outstanding support that enhances teaching and learning.
- Best Use of Digital Learning Phil Meredith – Caerleon Comprehensive, Caerleon Celebrated for pioneering digital integration in education.
- School Business Manager / Bursar — Winner & FinalistsWinner: Gwyn Jones – Ysgol Eirias, Conwy Finalists included others from across Wales. Gwyn’s passion and leadership made him the standout professional teaching awards cymru 2019 school business manager bursar winner.
Gwyn Jones wins Business Manager of the year at the… | Ysgol Eirias
- Inspirational Use of the Welsh Language Mark Morgan – Pen Y Dre High School, Merthyr Tydfil Acknowledged for creative promotion of the Welsh language.
- Teacher of the Year Allison Pope – Cwm Primary School,2 Ebbw Vale Recognized for exceptional care, compassion, and passion.
- Promoting Collaboration to Improve Learning Opportunities Tracy Jones – Cadoxton Primary School, Barry Highlighted for leading collaborative efforts to enhance opportunities.
- Promoting Wellbeing & Inclusion Team/School focused on fostering inclusive, supportive environments (specific winner emphasized wellbeing leadership).
- Headteacher of the Year Rhian Morgan Ellis – Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhondda, Porth Honored for transformative leadership and commitment to equity.
Focus: School Business Manager / Bursar Category
What this award recognizes
It honors business managers who excel in financial leadership, resource optimization, and supporting the school’s core educational mission.
Finalists & winner (e.g., Gwyn Jones — detailed profile)
Gwyn Jones from Ysgol Eirias was the professional teaching awards cymru 2019 school business manager bursar winner. Described as an “irreplaceable” ambassador, he leads the local business managers group, supports feeder schools, and ensures resources directly benefit pupils. His headteacher praised his passion and wide-reaching influence.
Gwyn Jones wins Business Manager of the year at the… | Ysgol Eirias
Why this category matters in Welsh education
Amid budget constraints, business managers ensure operational efficiency, allowing teachers to focus on pupils. Recognizing them highlights the backbone of sustainable, high-quality education in Wales.
Profiles of Key Winners
In-depth look at notable winners & their contributions
- Gwyn Jones: His collaborative leadership extends beyond Ysgol Eirias, enhancing regional education.
- Gruff Arfon: Innovative methods inspire inclusive learning.
- Rhian Morgan Ellis: Long-term impact on community and opportunities.
Quotes and reactions from winners (if available)
Minister Kirsty Williams: “A huge congratulations to all ten winners. The awards are a testament to their outstanding commitment.”
Gruff Arfon: “I wasn’t expecting the award. It’s nice to get recognition.”
Rhian Morgan Ellis: “It’s an honour… on behalf of the team.”
Impact of the Awards on Careers & Schools
How winning affects education professionals
Winners gain visibility, professional opportunities, and motivation, often leading to broader influence in policy and practice.
Local impact stories from schools
Schools like Ysgol Eirias experienced boosted pride, positive publicity, and strengthened community ties.
Selection & Judging Process
How finalists are chosen
Public nominations from pupils, parents, and colleagues are shortlisted based on evidenced impact.
Criteria used by judges
Innovation, leadership, pupil outcomes, and alignment with Welsh education priorities, assessed by regional consortia representatives.
Reactions from the Education Community
Statements from the Minister for Education
Kirsty Williams: “Our professionals put young people at the forefront… integral to our system.”
School and community feedback
Widespread celebration via media and social channels, with increased morale reported.
FAQs about Professional Teaching Awards Cymru 2019
What are these awards?
Prestigious national recognitions for outstanding education professionals in Wales3.
How are winners chosen?
Via public nominations, shortlisting, and judging on impact and innovation.
Who was the School Business Manager/Bursar winner?
Gwyn Jones from Ysgol Eirias, Conwy – the professional teaching awards cymru 2019 school business manager bursar winner.
Can schools nominate multiple staff?
Yes, multiple nominations are welcomed for deserving individuals.
How do these awards benefit schools?
They enhance morale, attract talent, share best practices, and provide positive recognition.
Conclusion
Summary of key highlights
The 2019 awards honored 10 exceptional individuals, with Gwyn Jones as the inspiring professional teaching awards cymru 2019 school business manager bursar winner.
Long-term significance of the 2019 awards
These honors continue to motivate excellence, emphasizing diverse roles in building a stronger Welsh education system for future generations.
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References
- Welsh Government Awards Page (2019 Section)https://www.gov.wales/professional-teaching-awards-cymru/2019-awards (Overview of the 2019 awards, including venue and date confirmation.) ↩︎
- Ysgol Eirias School Announcement “Gwyn Jones wins Business Manager of the year at the Professional Teaching Awards Cymru” https://eirias.co.uk/news/2019/new-entry (Detailed profile and quotes about Gwyn Jones, the School Business Manager/Bursar winner.) ↩︎
- Welsh Government Official Announcement “The best in Welsh education revealed at 2019 Professional Teaching Awards” https://www.gov.wales/best-welsh-education-revealed-2019-professional-teaching-awards (Primary source for winners list, quotes from Minister Kirsty Williams, ceremony details, and descriptions of achievements.) ↩︎