Bishop’s Stortford College teachers, Hazel Bailey and Pauline Mullender were invited to the 2015 German Teacher Awards at the ‘Sommerfest der deutschen Sprache’ (Summer Party for the German Language). Held in Cardiff City Hall on Friday 3rd July, with over 250 teachers and representatives from the education and language teaching sectors, business and the media from all over the UK. Presentations were made by German Ambassador Dr Peter Ammon and Minister for Education and Skills, Huw Lewis AM.
Both linguists shared the Lifetime Achievement Award for their dedication to the teaching of German over the years. This is the first time awards for setting standards of excellence have been made to two teachers from the same UK school, which makes it a wonderful achievement.
Mrs Bailey has been teaching for 36 years, and has been head of German at the college for 10 years. Mrs Bailey commented: “It has been my career’s mission not only to teach the German language, but also to introduce pupils to the rich cultural heritage of the countries where German is spoken. I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenges of the classroom, the trips abroad and the thrill of learning that former pupils are using their German in the world of work. Being honoured with this award is a wonderful way to end my career at the College.”
Mrs Mullender, who joined the College in 1991 and has been Pastoral Deputy Head since 2009, has been teaching German for over 40 years. Mrs Mullender commented: “The acquisition of a foreign language skill is an invaluable tool, a philosophy I have greatly enjoyed encouraging pupils to embrace. Recognition by the German Embassy is a much appreciated honour with which to round off an enormously rewarding career.”
Both members of staff are retiring from the College this year and Mrs Mullender will return in 2016 as a school governor.
