Inspirational Tutor Nominated for Award - Rhondda

Inspiring sign language and arts and crafts tutor, Tracey Davies, from Trehafod, who sadly passed away in October last year has been nominated for a posthumous award in the prestigious Niace Inspire Adult Learners Awards 2009.

The annual awards, which are organised by NIACE Dysgu Cymru, advocates of adult learning in Wales, aim to celebrate the commitment, knowledge and communication skills that inspire adult learners every day across Wales.

Tracey who taught classes throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf was nominated by the Council’s Adult Education Team as a result of her hard work and dedication.

Lynnette El-Khatib, Head of Adult Learning at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, said; “Tracey was a wonderful tutor who had worked her way up from being a student in an art and craft confidence-building group, later completing her CACDP Sign Language certificate and going on to do her PGCE at The University of Wales Cardiff. This was achieved whilst looking after her two children and supporting her husband whilst he completed his degree.

“Tracey always showed true dedication and commitment and even travelled to all her classes around Rhondda Cynon Taf by public transport a feat that always amazed us - she never complained.

“One of my fondest memories of Tracey was at a sign language course that had been set up for carers in the community. It was the groups second day and they were signing to their opposite person, Tracey was interacting with the learners encouraging and supporting them, they were all enjoying themselves; laughing and learning at the same time. Tracey as always provided a fabulous learning experience for the carers.

“A new member of staff recently mentioned to me that wherever she goes Tracey is talked about with the highest of praise and is very much missed.

“Tracey truly was an inspiration to all her students, she was a very gentle person with a great understanding of other peoples needs, she used her skills to encourage her students to move on to further education and work, giving them the confidence and motivation to achieve their goals.”

Councillor Eudine Hanagan, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, said: “This posthumous nomination of Tracey Davies is a reflection of just what an inspiration she was to all those who she tutored and the contribution she made to adult learning.”

For more information and advice on adult learning and the courses available in Rhondda Cynon Taf or about the Inspire Awards contact the Council’s Adult Education Team on 01443 741 332.