Avonwood Primary School is celebrating a member of staff, John Mather, for winning the ‘Primary Lifetime Achievement Award’ at United Learning’s national Best in Everyone Awards. John was commended at a magnificent black-tie gala held at the Cutlers’ Hall in Sheffield on Friday 21st June.
John, a Year 5 teacher at the school, was awarded the national award for his longstanding commitment to the academy. Since joining Avonwood in 2000, John has made sizeable contributions to life at the school. In particular, he has used his background in acting to inspire pupils to engage with performing arts and runs an after-school musical theatre club which is highly popular with pupils. His engaging lessons have inspired pupils for several decades, and his positive presence is often noticed and praised by visitors.
First held in 2013, the annual Best in Everyone Awards celebrates the accomplishments of students and staff at United Learning schools across the country. The awards evening also gives credit to some of United Learning’s most inspirational and hard-working individuals and teams. This year, awards recognised both academic excellence and extracurricular achievements, including notable contributions to local communities.
To take home this award, John was selected by a panel of judges out of a shortlist of excellent candidates from across United Learning schools. Due to retire this summer, this award marks an excellent celebration of John’s 24 years of service. He continues to be admired at the school for teaching with the same energy and enthusiasm he had when he first began in his role.
John said of his award:
“I feel both humbled and honoured to be the recipient of this prestigious award. After 24 years in teaching, it is touching to be recognised for my contribution to primary education. I would like to thank and express my deepest appreciation both to United Learning and Avonwood for their encouragement, support and touching statements. It is truly appreciated. Thank you!”
Chris Jackson, Headteacher at Avonwood Primary School, said:
“The invaluable contributions John has made to the school in his 24 years here, and his unwavering dedication and enthusiasm to teaching, not only make him an excellent role model to pupils, but to all staff. We are extremely proud of him for winning this award, which is highly deserved. He will be dearly missed by Avonwood pupils and staff alike in his retirement however we wish him the very best of luck.”