The Old Bostonian Association

Richard Anderson - One of the Best

 This article appeared in the Autumn 2001 edition of The Old Bostonian.

Teacher is a Class Apart

One of the school's best known and loved teachers was recently nominated for a prestigious national award. Richard Anderson who teaches French and German at BGS, was in the running for a lifelong achievement prize at the British Telecom Teaching Awards. In a ceremony at Nottingham's Council House, Mr Anderson who has taught at BGS for 30 years - was joined by the most talented teachers from across the East Midlands who were hoping to go away with one of the eight category prizes.

For many years Richard has run many of the Grammar School's extra-curricular activities. As well as taking the well known Schuhplattlergruppe across thne country and to Europe, he also supervises the school's charity club, general knowledge club, and cross-country club.

Speaking before the event, Richard said: "It was a lovely gesture by two Year 11 pupils - Robert Barclay and Ricki Danks - who put my name forward. They said 'we've got you sir' and they were absolutely right - I was taken completely by surprise. I know I'll be up against some very tough competition but I'll be flying the flag for the school in the awards.

An awards panel had the unenviable task of assessing hundreds of nominations from head teachers, teachers, learning support assistants, pupils and parents who have told of extraordinary teachers doing extraordinary work. If Richard won his category in the East Midlands' heat, he would bring back £2,000 for the school, going on to the grand final in London in October.

However, Richard just failed to scoop the award, but still received a special commendation. He was beaten to first place by Stuart Nobles, a teacher from Humphrey Perkins School in Loughborough. Richard was presented with a framed certificate and a £250 cheque by Jean Gemmell who is the general secretary of the professional association of teachers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Richard said "I had a super day and was very pleased with the way it went. I was delighted just to get that far in the competition. I am hoping to spend the money on the boys on a theme day to celebrate my 30 years at the school."

Yet again Richard's generosity and dedication to the 'lads' in the school shows through!


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Updated 21 February, 2005