Inspirational Teacher Award Winner 2008 Jonathan Bussy Interview

New Directions Education recently met with Inspirational Teacher Award winner Jonathan Bussy to talk about his experiences since winning in 2008. Here Jonathan tells us about his own journey and why anyone considering it should submit a nomination before the deadline of 9th May 2014.

How long have you been teaching?

Altogether I have been teaching for over 14 years, I started off working as a Primary Teacher and progressed to a Deputy Head role and then to my current role as Head Teacher.  

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Although it does sound a bit corny, the most enjoyable part of my job is making a difference to the children. Working as a Primary Teacher I could make a difference to the children in my class, but working as a Head Teacher means I can make an impact across the school with initiatives I have put in place, it is very rewarding when you can see the difference something you have introduced has made.

How did it feel to be nominated for the award?

I was very surprised and humbled by the nomination, the fact the children at the school I was working at voted for me meant even more. I was really happy to be recognised for the work I had done and it reassured me that what I was doing was right and impacted the children in a positive way.

How did it feel to win?

I was shocked at being nominated, to win was even more of a shock, and I was really surprised. There are lots of other deserving teachers out there that are doing a really good job so being selected as the winner was amazing.  The awards ceremony was lovely and had a real local feel being an all Wales event. 

Did the award have any impact on your career?

Yes I feel it has, as well as helping me stand out when I am making applications it also reminds me that the role I have is important. I introduced many different clubs including maths, music and sports clubs at my last school which obviously take up a lot of time and effort, but when you can see the difference it makes to the children it pushes you to carry on.

What are your career highlights?

The biggest highlight of my career has got to be becoming a Head Teacher. As Head I can make a difference to the whole school with the work I do, not only with the kids but also with the staff. I believe it is important to develop staff; there are four members of staff at this school who are currently studying for their Masters.

What are your future plans?

In the future I would like to work in a school which may be struggling or not doing well. I feel this will be challenging and would be extremely rewarding to work hard and make a difference at a school like that.

 What would you say to others who might be thinking about nominating someone?

If there is someone who you think deserves it you should definitely nominate them. Usually you only get to hear when things go wrong. It is nice to hear when something has gone right; this is a good way of recognising that person for their hard work.

Will you be nominating someone for the awards?

There are lots of individuals who have a done a lot for the school; I am considering a few people who I think meet the criteria for being inspirational.

I would like to add that I am happy that the awards are being held by New Directions again this year. The awards have more of a local feel to them, sometimes it’s quite daunting entering awards on a national scale as you feel that you could never win.