St Cuthbert’s teacher recognised with award

There were celebrations at St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary in Kenton, when a staff member received a prestigious teaching award, becoming one of only ten teachers shortlisted for a national final.

Alasdair Bright won the Inspiring History Teaching Award for Yorkshire, the Humber, and the North East for his innovative work at the school, where he is History Lead.

“The award recognises a range of work I’ve been involved in, particularly embedding local heritage into the curriculum, making the subject more inclusive by removing barriers to accessing heritage, and leading an inspiring history curriculum at St Cuthbert’s,” he explained.

“It is also worth mentioning that both St Cuthbert’s and St George’s are now recognised as ‘Champion Heritage Schools’ – an award given by Historic England to schools that successfully embed local heritage into their curriculum.

“There are currently only 13 such schools in the country, so this is a significant achievement for both schools, which work in partnership under our Executive Headteacher, Anne Bullerwell.”

Launched this year by Historic Royal Palaces, the Inspiring History Awards aim to ‘celebrate teachers across the UK who make history engaging, inclusive, and meaningful’.

The organisation’s website states: “Alasdair has been recognised by the judges for creating an inclusive history curriculum rooted in local heritage.

“Through his pupil leadership group, the ‘Heritage Heroes’, children research Newcastle’s past and, with the help of local families, have created walking tours in more than 20 languages, shared across the community via QR codes in GP surgeries, libraries and shops.”

The National Final is due to take place in June at the appropriately historic venue of the Tower of London, where Mr Bright will join the other nine finalists from around the country.

“I was genuinely shocked and delighted when Historic Royal Palaces first got in touch,” he added. “But, on reflection, perhaps I shouldn’t have been surprised, because we know how wonderful St Cuthbert’s Primary School is, and how hard our children and staff work every day.

“This recognition has made me feel incredibly proud of our school. The award is really a testament to the whole team, and the fantastic children we work with.”