Inspirational music teacher recognised

A Music lecturer from Gower College Swansea has been shortlisted for a prestigious Pearson Teacher of the Year Award.

Jonathan Rogers, who is Curriculum Leader for A Level Music at the Gorseinon Campus, is in the running for the title of FE Lecturer of the Year.

Accomplished and well respected in the music world, Jon utilises his links with organisations – such as the Swansea Philharmonic Choir (where, as Conductor, he set up a scholarship scheme to provide opportunities for students to perform large choral works with orchestras) and the Dunvant Male Choir (who provide a host of opportunities for young performers) – to inspire the next generation of musicians.

A true advocate of community engagement and enrichment, during the pandemic Jon has worked tirelessly to ensure that students can still access practical opportunities at a time when the world of live performance has been hugely impacted.

Jon inspires learners to achieve and works tirelessly to overcome any barriers, such as access to funding, which could prevent them from enjoying the enrichment opportunities which are central to their skills development. He places the learner at the heart of everything he does, is generous with his time both inside and outside the classroom, and engages in regular one to one meetings with students to get to know them and learn more about their hopes and dreams.

Many of Jon’s students have progressed to specialist music colleges such as the Rotal Acaedmy of Music and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama after leaving college.

“Jon is one of the most talented, creative and dynamic lecturers I have had the pleasure of working with,” says Learning Area Manager, Jenny Hill. “He has embraced the challenges posed by Covid-19 with fervour and is dedicated to providing the best quality education for each and every student.

“He inspires excellence not only in our students but also those in schools throughout the City and County of Swansea through his role within the HE+ and Seren Academy initiatives. He also plays an important role with regards to the College’s overall wellbeing strategy and was central in setting up the staff choir, providing a welcoming environment for staff of all musical abilities to enjoy the benefits of music and singing.”

This praise is echoed by many of his students:

“Jon is an amazing and supportive music teacher who has helped me build my confidence as a performer…if it wasn’t for Jon and his coaching lessons, I would not have received a scholarship offer to my first choice conservatoire. For two years he has worked very hard with me to improve the quality of my voice and presence as a performer and I am forever grateful for his advice…”

“Jon is the best lecturer, he’s extremely dedicated to us and is so supportive. He has so much drive for us to do well… He motivates us and really sees us as what we can become as well as focusing on who we are now, and helps us to make ourselves – as musicians and people – the best versions we can be.”

“Since the very start of these strange times, Jon has been there for every one of us. He puts our education and wellbeing first… Personally I believe that Jon is one of the best teachers I’ve ever had… He has helped me become a better musician and has furthered my understanding of what I love, for which I will always be grateful.”

“Jon is a first class educator and I’m delighted he has been shortlisted for such an important award as FE Lecturer of the Year,” says Principal Mark Jones. “It is particularly rewarding to read the comments of his students and to hear, at first hand, how much they value his dedication and support during what has been a very difficult year. We wish Jon all the best with this richly deserved nomination.” 

Photo: Sian Pearce Gordon