Meet the team

In my time at Gilwern I have taught in every year group and thoroughly enjoyed the challenge each year group brings. For me it's important to create a challenging learning environment that empowers learners to achieve excellence.

I pride myself on creating a positive climate of learning across the school and hope that every learner walks into sunshine as they start their day in Gilwern. I believe that teachers who love teaching teach children to love learning!

Music for me is a common languauge for everyone and I like nothing more than a good sing in assembly! My weekends are filled with walks in the woods searching for sticks which are suitable to be used as pirate swords to play with my beautiful boys. The way to my heart is a nice strong "cuppa tea" and a chocolate hobnob.

I have been teaching at Gilwern for over 8 years and have thoroughly enjoyed my experiences in differing different age groups.  I have been fortunate to take lead roles in many aspects of the school, from curriculum teams, assessment coordinator to currently being part of the senior leadership team and the additional learning needs coordinator.  I have had the privilege of being involved in many projects over the years, including international partnerships with China, as well as learning about outdoor education in Iceland and Denmark. 

I believe that every pupil has the ability to achieve their full potential through positive learning experiences. At Gilwern we nurture pupils, empower them and aim high for them to achieve success.  Every pupil has an individual talent that should be celebrated.   

I can be known as the ‘map’ lady in school, as I absolutely love a map, but I also really enjoy being in the outdoors, enjoying walks around the farm with my family. 

I have worked at Gilwern School for 21 years and have enjoyed many experiences and changes within the school. I have had the privilege of being involved in many projects and initiatives over the years, including international partnerships. Currently I am the joint lead of the Science and Technology Curriculum team and organise our Lead Network Schools events, sharing good practice and experience with other schools. I have taught in year 5 for most of my career, though I have spent time in other year groups.

I strongly believe that every child can achieve their full potential within the right environment and with the right encouragement. I aim to make learning fun and involve every pupil in their own learning.

I have a keen interest in anything space-related and have been ‘Mission Commander Parry’ for many years. In my spare time I run and I have enjoyed many runs and races with my colleagues. If I had a super power it would be the ability to do everything at double speed as I have so much I want to achieve but there aren’t enough hours in the day! My absolute favourite food is a good curry, in particular Thai green.

I joined Gilwern Primary School in September 2021 after completing my degree in Sociology and my PGCE that followed. Throughout my teacher training and early career,  I have had the pleasure of teaching in both Foundation Phase and Key Stage 2. My passion for teaching stemmed from being inspired by my teachers when I was in school, and I hope to inspire the children I teach in the same way! Here at Gilwern, I am a part of the Science and Technology team where I will be utilising my interests and skills to drive this area of the curriculum forward.

I love to spend my time with my friends and family, going for long walks and being outside in the fresh air. Nothing beats a walk on a crisp, cold morning when the sun is shining! If I had a super power, it would be to transport to anywhere in the world by the click of my fingers.

Athrawes Cymraeg dw i. I work in lots of classes across the school and spend two days with Year 3 every week. I have had the opportunity to learn Welsh for a year and now I'm back I'd love it if everyone spoke Welsh to me! 

I believe that learning is fun and that play is a serious thing. I know that everyone of us has something to shine about.

Dwi’n wedi bod yn dysgu Cymraeg achos ma’en ddiddorol! If I could choose a superpower it would be to be able to clean up all the plastic in the ocean. My favourite food is fish and chips eaten by the sea side.

Before joining Gilwern Primary School, I taught for nine years in primary schools across both England and Wales. I have taught a range of year groups from Reception to Year 6 which has been interesting to see how pupils develop in all aspects of learning throughout their time at primary school. I have always been passionate about literacy and creativity and I'm looking forward to utilising and developing new skills within Gilwern.

I thoroughly enjoy helping learners to achieve their maximum potential whilst having fun on their learning journey. My aim is to provide pupils with exciting challenges and the necessary tools to thrive and take ownership of their learning. It is particularly important to foster a positive and interactive learning environment to motivate pupils and encourage confidence in themselves. 

I love to walk our local mountains with my children and our dog. I also enjoy yoga classes and taking part in anything creative. Skiing is one of my favourite holidays as I'm quite an active person however, I also love relaxing by the seaside in Cornwall and Tenby. Dw i'n hoffi siocled poeth gyda hufen!

I’m now going into my second school year at Gilwern School. Prior to joining Gilwern, I have 12 years experience in English education as both a teacher, and before qualifying, a teaching assistant. I have predominantly taught Year 6, but since arriving at Gilwern I have been lucky enough to gain new experience in Year 3. Throughout my career I have lead art, science and eco-schools. I’m now excited to have the opportunity to be part of curriculum teams and take part in initiatives and projects at Gilwern. I am excited about taking on all the new challenges and opportunities that Gilwern has to offer. 

I believe that each child brings something different to the classroom and that the education we provide should bring something for all personalities, abilities and talents. Every child has the right to be engaged, to learn and the be nurtured in order to reach their full potential. Most importantly, I believe school should be somewhere a child feels happy and safe and beyond that, everything else becomes possible. 

I love nature and enjoy nothing more than being out in the hills with my husband and daughter. I am an animal lover, particularly dogs. I love art and when I have time enjoy sitting and drawing. During the summer, a favourite hobby of mine is wild swimming. If I could choose a superpower it would be to be able to pause time to add a few much needed hours to my day! My favourite food meal to share with family and friends has to be a good roast dinner and a crumble pudding! 

My experience in Gilwern Primary began once completing a Post Graduate in Education degree in 2019. I have taught Reception through to Year 6 which has helped me to develop as a practitioner. I have a keen interest in health and well being which is aided by the outdoor facilities we have at Gilwern. I am looking forward to getting involved in the life of the school and the community.

I am passionate about learning and allowing children to develop through play and practical activities. I also believe that children should have the opportunity to lead their own learning, to create an engaging environment where children are given the opportunity to thrive and become the best possible version of themselves.

I love sport, especially rugby. Whilst in university I was given the opportunity to play at Twickenham, the home of England Rugby. If I had a superpower, it would be to spread positivity around the world.

I have worked at Gilwern Primary School for 5 years and have worked in both Key Stage 2 and Foundation Phase. As Literacy coordinator I love seeing the journey our learners make throughout their time in our school. I enjoy nothing more than a trip to the theatre or curling up with a good book.

Before becoming a teacher, I experienced a number of different roles. I have worked in Information Services at Coleg Gwent, administered Welsh Government contracts, and owned a business running preschool music classes called Music Bugs.

I am passionate about learning through practical, engaging experiences and hope that this encourages the children in my class to be stimulated to learn and grow together.

I have 2 daughters who are growing up too fast. I enjoy spending time with my family and dog Milly. I really enjoy fun, support and friendship when running with colleagues in The Gilwern Geese. Dw i'n mwynhau mynd ar wyliau. My Superpower would be to be in 2 places at once.

I have recently joined Gilwern Primary as a Reception class teacher. I have previously worked for the SpLD service and as a Reception and Year 2 teacher in my previous school. I am looking forward to getting involved in the life of the school and the community, especially through leading the Online Safety Champions group.

I believe that by creating an engaging learning environment and providing a range of experiences, everyone can achieve their full potential and shine!

In my spare time, I enjoy reading. My superpower would be to tidy my class at the click of a finger. My favourite food is chocolate cake with a cup of tea!

I am in my fourth year of teaching at Gilwern and have taught across Key Stage Two and the Foundation Phase. I have a particular passion for maths and I am currently leading Mathematics and Numeracy through the school. Before joining the Gilwern Team I had the wonderful experience of teaching abroad in both Dubai and Shanghai.

I strongly believe that all children should have the opportunity to lead their own learning to create an engaging curriculum where they have the opportunities to express themselves, creatively, physically, emotionally, socially and academically.

I have a 1-year-old son and a chocolate Labrador who both keep me very busy! We love spending time by the seaside where we can explore the outdoors and keep fit and healthy. Dw i'n hoffi bwyta pysgod a sgoldion! If I had a superpower it would be to fly. 

Having joined the Gilwern Team in 1998 as an NNEB working one-to-one, I have been lucky enough to see the journey Gilwern has been on, from a small village school with empty classrooms to the thriving community it is today.

Pupils in Gilwern get an array of wonderful opportunities as do staff. Whilst continuing to work I have undertaken a degree, HLTA and ELSA training which has given me vital skills to help our learners to be the best that they can be. I work throughout the school covering PPA, co-ordinating RWInc, delivering ELSA programme, covering interventions and supporting ALN pupils.

In a world where you can be anything just BE KIND!

If I had a superpower it would be to fly. I would love to use it to travel anywhere and everywhere. I think it is important to keep mind and body healthy and I enjoy running. I don't have a favourite colour as it changes all the time. My favourite food is a hearty homemade stew.

I have worked at Gilwern since 2004, where I have spent my time working in the Foundation Phase. I started by running Hopscotch Childcare before and afterschool club before handing it over to Miss Pugh following the arrival of my daughter Ellie.

Since qualifying as a HLTA I am enjoying the different experiences and challenges this role gives me. 

It's ok to make mistakes - mistakes help us learn!

If I had a superpower it would be to be a mind reader (I would love to know what the children are thinking)

I love nothing more than talking my daughhter to the park and spending time with my family.

My favourite food is a Sunday roast.

I have worked at Gilwern School since 2011. During my time at the school I have moved classes each year. I have worked with all year groups in Key Stage 2 and I have also worked in Year 2 for a year, gaining experience to support all ages. I am a Level 3 Forest School Facilitator which enhances my teaching and provides me with skills to deliver practical activities in the outdoors.

I love to inspire and encourage children to be the best that they can be and to help equip them for the future.

I love spending time with my family, I enjoy baking, reading and going on holiday. If I had a super power I would love to be able to read children’s minds, they have such amazing imaginations that we often lose when we grow older.

I have had the pleasure of supporting children’s learning at Gilwern Primary for a wonderful eight years. I have a strong commitment to the social and academic growth and development of every child.

Never underestimate the power of a smile!

I absolutely love to clean! The smell of a clean kitchen and fresh flowers in the window makes me happy. I am quite indecisive and adventurous and love nothing better than climbing a mountain or going for a long run. I also have a little dog called Bella - who is my world.

I have been at Gilwern Primary School for the last four years and I have thoroughly enjoyed the journey so far. I have been very fortunate to be part of the team pioneering the new curriculum at Gilwern. There are so many new opportunities and learning experiences that we have embraced and I feel really excited about the future

I have worked in both the Foundation Phase and Key Stage 2 departments and have really enjoyed working with all staff and pupils. I am part of the Breakfast and Afterschool Club which provides great care and activities for all children.

Always follow your dreams and work hard towards your goals.   

I love watching cricket and occasionally help to coach at a cricket club. I enjoy swimming, Zumba, going for walks and spending time with family and friends. If I had a superpower, I would like to be in more than one place at a time!

My experience in Gilwern Primary began after transferring from Hopscotch Nursery where I spent 4 years. I have supported the Foundation Phase and worked with children with additional needs. Gilwern has allowed me to grown as an individual offering me new opportunities and challenges.

I help and support in Breakfast and I am the manager of Hopscotch Afterschool club- I enjoy spending time with the children and just having fun! 

I am a fully qualified Forest Schools Leader.

It is ok to make mistakes - nobody is perfect and that’s why pencils have erasers.

Cornwall is one of my favourite places to visit just to have a proper Cornish pasty and of course the Cornish gin is amazing too! I love to spend my spare time watching films with a "cuppa tea" and lots of chocolate - I will admit I am a chocoholic!

If I had a superpower, it would be to freeze time because a school environment is so busy it would be amazing to pause and enjoy every special moment when a child achieves and grows.

A fun fact about me - in my early childhood I lived in South Africa.

I joined Gilwern Primary School in September 2018 after 26 years in St Michael's RC  Primary in Newport. During my career I have worked in every year group. I enjoy working within the Foundation Phase and helping children to develop their reading and writing skills.

I have a passion for helping children achieve through authentic learning experiences.

I enjoy shopping, running and spending time with my two daughters. If I had a superpower it would be to have super speed so that I could get jobs done quickly.

My favourite food is anything that is sweet and no good for me.

I started in Gilwern in January 2010, every day is different it’s a fun and challenging environment to work in, but well worth it. Watching the children grow each day is magical. 

Always be kind and wake up each day with a smile.

My life outside school is very busy as I have 2 teenagers to run around after and a 6 year old Cockerpoo dog who loves his daily walks and cuddles.  I love baking and always have a freshly baked cake at home welcoming family and friends.  My passion is photography and I always have a camera in my hand for any opportunity capturing special memories - a picture is worth a thousand words.

I joined Gilwern Primary School in 2018, after a career break. My background is in Internal Communications but I also have experience of office management and PA work. No place has been as special (or busy!) to work in as Gilwern Primary School; the children make me smile every day.

Work hard and be grateful for the little things.

I have three children so life is fun and busy. I dabble with a bit of running and enjoy baking, photography and mountain walks with the family. If I had a superpower it would most definitely be to create more hours in the day!

Be warm, welcoming and helpful.

I enjoy long walks with my dogs, being out in in the fresh air embracing the wonderful countryside where I live, good food and being entertained by a movie or a mystery novel. 

I am entering my fourth year working in Gilwern Primary School. I have gained further qualifications since joining Gilwern and look forward to strengthening my career there by developing the skills I can bring to the classroom. I thoroughly enjoy my time working throughout the school, in breakfast club and helping to run after school club. 

I am passionate about learning and hope to aid children in building their confidence. Believe you can and you're half way there!

I want children to understand that its okay to make mistakes because that's how we learn. I also want to emphasis how important it is to try lots of different things and take every opportunity presented to you! Just look at me, i dedicated 4 years to a degree to realise I wanted to take a completely different career path!

I love nothing more than going for long Autumn walks with my family and my dogs, George and Hugo. To come home and snuggle up with a cup of tea and some biscuits!

I am a big football fan and spend my weekends cheering on Chelsea FC alongside my dad and brother. If I had a super power it would be to pause time, just so you could appreciate all the small things!

I have recently joined Gilwern School as a teaching assistant , after being a parent since 2014. I have always been tempted to find out what makes my children happy and this has given me that opportunity.

I believe all children should be given the chance to smile at least once a day, if not oce an hour. A smile is infectious and I hope I can share this daily.

My happy place is the great outdoors, I have been lucky enough to share this with my children and family. I have travelled to many parts of the World and was lucky enough to ride racehorses in a few of these amazing places. As a family we've explored many mountains, lakes and oceans but the Brecon Beacons has got my heart.

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