National Teaching Awards Celebrations for WHSG

Celebrations are underway at Westcliff High School for Girls as their longest serving member of staff, Mr Barry Hayton, was awarded a Highly Commended certificate in the Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Pearson National Teaching Awards.   Matthew King, Specialist Biology SLP and STEM Lead, was also awarded a Certificate of Excellence in the Secondary Teacher of The Year category.

The Pearson National Teaching Awards celebrates the impact of invaluable education and are the most prestigious celebration of transformational teaching in the UK. 

Barry’s roles in the school have included Head of Year, Head of Careers, Head of History, Assistant Head/Head of Sixth Form and he recently returned to his first role and first love, being a History Teacher. 

Barry has taught history at Westcliff High School for Girls for almost 34 years and many past pupils, parents and colleagues speak fondly of Mr Hayton and his integral part of the school.  Colleagues who supported his nomination said that Barry “encapsulates what it means to dedicate your life and career to education” that  “it is in Barry's DNA to make sure that every pupil reach their full potential, and no-one is left behind” and that “pupils develop a love a history that lasts far longer than their school years thanks to Barry's passionate teaching”.  

On hearing the news of his award Barry said “I am incredibly honoured to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition is not just a reflection of my own efforts, but a testament to the unwavering support and dedication of my exceptional colleagues at Westcliff High School for Girls. Their encouragement and collaboration have been instrumental in allowing me to make a positive impact on the lives of countless students. I am truly grateful for their unwavering support throughout the years and to all the students whom I have had the pleasure of teaching." 

Matthew King, was awarded a Certificate of Excellence in the Secondary Teacher of The Year category. Matt’s passion for STEM as well as developing teaching pedagogy is undeniable and we look forward to further collaborative working next academic year as Matt begins his new role as an Education Officer, alongside his associate leadership role at WHSG, in September 2023.  

Barry Hayton with WHSG Headteacher Emma Matthews

Matt King with WHSG Headteacher Emma Matthews