Abertillery Learning Community has celebrated the remarkable achievements and contributions of its learners at their first Community Awards Evening.
The event brought together students, families, staff, and community partners to showcase the compassion, commitment, and community spirit of learners, and thank them for their efforts.
Headteacher Tracey Jarvis says:
“It was a lovely evening and a powerful reminder of what makes our school truly special, our amazing and inspiring children and young people. I was so proud to hear all about their achievements which really does remind us of all of what can be achieved when a community like Abertillery comes together. Well done everyone.”
Chair of Governors, Darryl Tovey says:
“Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event so memorable - from presenters and organisers to families and friends who joined us in celebration. And most importantly, congratulations to our award winners, and every pupil who continues to make our school and community such an inspiring place to be.”
The full list of award winners is:
Volunteer of the Year Award: Cerys Palmer
A learner with compassionate unwavering support and a positive attitude. Cerys volunteers for Disability Pathway, helping children aged 4-12 years old swim safely and have fun.
Special Recognition Award: Niamh Tetley Lanah-Mai Coles, Ava Staley, Darcie Gallier-Morgan & Amelia Williams
The teamwork and spirit of this group has brought warmth and support to many community projects. These girls stop every morning on their way into school to chat with a lady who has dementia. Every morning, they check in on her and spend time talking to her. The lady's family say she looks forward to seeing and chatting with the girls daily and she waits in the window or door until she sees the girls. The girls have taken her gifts, flowers at Christmas and if passing during the school holidays, they check in on her.
Act of kindness Award: Evan Small
Evan's quiet acts of kindness often go unnoticed but have touched many hearts – from supporting classmates to volunteering his time without hesitation. Recently a friend of Evan's family received a terminal cancer diagnosis. This lady loved Everton football club. Evan contacted several football clubs to get letters of support for her, signed cards and photographs. Her one true love was Everton football club. Evan contacted the club and asked for a signed worn match shirt for her of her favourite player Seamus Coleman. He paid out of his own money for the shirt to be sent to him. She wore the shirt with so much pride. Sadly, this lady passed away recently, and Evan was mentioned in her funeral for the joy he brought to her.
Eco-Warrior Award: Lillian Tinker
Lillian Tinker has transformed her school's approach to recycling, launching an initiative that has significantly increased recycling efforts and raised awareness among her peers about reducing waste and reusing resources. Since being an eco-warrior, she has helped with the school's Wales in Bloom project. She has also litter picked at Cwmtillery lakes and recently went to the Glastonbury festival where she participated in the Greenpeace fields.
Young Carer Award: Kailen Williams
Kailen Williams, balances school, personal life, and caregiving with remarkable courage and grace. Kailen looks after his nan who is blind and cared for his grandad before he passed away of MND.
Community Hero Award: Class 10LS
Class 1 OLS are a remarkable group of learners who have come together as a team to create lasting change. Through various initiatives, they have improved their local environment and strengthened community spirit, demonstrating the power of teamwork and shared purpose. When a storm caused a devastating landslide in Cwmtillery last year, many families were affected, including two of their own classmates. Deeply moved by the impact on their peers, the students of 1OLS felt compelled to act. They decided that the best way to support those in need was through providing warm, home-cooked meals - a gesture of care and solidarity. They prepared additional meals and placed them in Cafe Tyleri, making sure residents had access to nourishment during a difficult time. Their actions reflect a strong sense of empathy, community spirit, and leadership well beyond their years. 10LS turned compassion into action, and their selfless response.
Arts and Culture Award: Oliver Harmer
Oliver Harmer is a talented young musician. Oliver plays the cornet and has performed widely with the local brass band supporting community events. Oliver is also a member of AYDMS and has performed multiple duets and solos at various locations, including in the MET, Abertillery.
Pupil Recognition Award: Isabella Mathelin
Isabella's dedication and leadership have set a fantastic example for her peers and contributed greatly to the school's spirit and success. Her outstanding dedication and service over the past year as a volunteer with disability swimming lessons at Aneurin Leisure Trust. Isabella has consistently shown compassion, patience, and commitment, making a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals she supports. Her positive attitude and willingness to go above and beyond have made her an invaluable part of the team and a true role model in the community.
Charitable Champion Award: Archie Williams
Archie Williams has been a tireless supporter of local charities, organising fundraising events and inspiring others to get involved. His enthusiasm and leadership have helped raise much-needed funds and awareness of motor neurone disease. He recently ran a 5k and raised over £2000 for the 'My Name’s Doddie Foundation'. Along with his parents, Archie has also set up a trust called the MNDEFIANCE, and he has walked Penyfan to raise money for MND alongside the other members of the Defiance Army.
Community Personality of the Year Award: Erin Grote
Since the age of five, Erin has been using sign language to communicate with her younger brother. This beautiful bond they share is built on love, understanding, and patience. But her natural talent and compassion didn't stop at home. She enthusiastically shared her knowledge with classmates and teachers, creating fun, inclusive learning moments that brought us all closer together. Her kindness and leadership have inspired many. In 2024, this learner took her incredible talent to the stage of ALC 's Got Talent, competing alongside learners from all four campuses. Her performances, signing to various songs, captivated the audience and judges alike-and she won the grand final!
