Lynn Griffiths of Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili has been recognised as the Gold Winner of the Award for Lifetime Achievement in the 2025 Pearson National Teaching Awards, considered the ‘Oscars’ of the teaching profession.
The exclusive reveal was mentionedon Friday’s BBC’s The One Show, ahead of a glamorous awards ceremony taking place on the weekend.
Lynn Griffiths is an inspirational educational leader who has dedicated his entire career to Ysgol Gymraeg Caerffili. He has championed bilingualism through innovative language immersion techniques, ensuring hundreds of pupils leave as confident Welsh speakers. Lynn’s work has been recognised regionally and nationally, with Estyn, EAS, and the Welsh Government drawing on his expertise in leadership, language development, and professional learning.
Lynn learnt of his win during a live surprise at the Langham Hotel. Lynn was stunned when Strictly’s Amy Dowden, also from Caerphilly, appeared before he was whisked to the studio to be reunited with two of his children and other Gold Winners.
Selected from thousands of nominees, the Wales-based educator has been recognised for his exceptional contribution to both students and the wider community.
The Pearson National Teaching Awards is an annual celebration that honours the incredible achievements and transformative impact of educators. Run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity, and sponsored by Pearson, the world’s lifelong learning company, the awards shine a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.
The glittering evening, held at The Brewery in Central London, was hosted by TV presenter and broadcaster Gaby Roslin and brought together Silver Winners across 16 categories, alongside industry peers, colleagues and special guests.
Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, says: “Education is built on the steady, often unseen work of dedicated individuals – teachers and school staff who show up every day to make a difference. The Pearson National Teaching Awards give us the chance to recognise and celebrate that commitment. This year’s entries were, once again, full of powerful stories of creativity and care. My congratulations to all of this year’s winners, you remind us what a vital role education plays in shaping lives and futures.”
Sharon Hague, CEO, Pearson UK, says: “Behind every confident student or changed life, there’s an educator who made it possible. The Pearson National Teaching Awards shines a spotlight on the inspiring individuals whose influence has gone far beyond the classroom. This is a celebration of excellence at the highest level, and we are thrilled to be able to recognise these achievements. Congratulations to all of this year’s Gold Winners!”
Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle says: “I am absolutely delighted to congratulate Lynn Griffiths on this thoroughly deserved recognition. This award highlights the vital importance of Welsh language education and the power of excellent teaching.
“Lynn’s approach to Welsh language immersion has equipped hundreds of pupils with confidence and set a benchmark for educational excellence across Wales. We are fortunate to have educators like Lynn, whose passion and expertise strengthen our education system, and I would like to thank him for his invaluable contribution to Welsh education.”
