INSPIRING Gwent maths lecturer Ann Johns has been recognised for her excellence by scooping a top national award. Ann, of Osbaston, Monmouth, has worked as a lecturer and pastoral tutor at Coleg Gwent's Newport Campus for 12 years. She has now been named winner of a prestigious Inspire Adult Tutor/ Mentor Awards 2007. The cream of tutors and mentors, who deliver an extensive range of courses throughout Wales, were celebrated at a glittering awards ceremony. The renowned annual competition, backed by NIACE Dysgu Cymru advocates of adult learning, identifies and rewards outstanding and committed tutors and mentors who have been involved in adult learning in Wales for over three years. John Griffiths, Deputy Minister for Skills, presenting Ann with her award said: "Adult tutors and mentors are some of the most inspirational people there are and justly deserve the recognition they attract through these well respected and highly prestigious awards. "These professionals continue to play a vital part in helping to deliver Wales' skills agenda and with it the improvements to the country's economy." Richard Spear, NIACE Dysgu Cymru's Director for Wales who was also at the awards ceremony, said: "The quality of entries to the awards this year was absolutely staggering. "It is encouraging to know that we have such committed, dedicated and inspirational tutors and mentors here in Wales inspiring, encouraging and ultimately helping adults to achieve their learning goals "The tutors and mentors, like Ann, that have been recognised by these awards represent the very best of their profession in Wales. They represent the talent of adult educators in Wales and act as superb role models for others." A delighted Ann said: "I can think of nothing better that showing students of all ages that Maths is not some baffling, complex subject but one that is fun, interesting and exciting. "I have found teaching adults is highly rewarding and satisfying; to see them grow in confidence and leave the college as independent learners ready to embark on their future careers is inspirational to me." Gary Hadley, of Coleg Gwent, who nominated Ann for the award, said: "Every so often you come across a teacher who even their peers appreciate and recognise as being exceptional and 100% committed to their vocation. Ann is such a teacher and her nomination is not just from me, but also from the whole staff team at the campus." The Inspire Awards ceremony took place recently at The Orangery, Margam Park, Neath Port Talbot.
