Ryan Smith, an outstanding postgraduate student in secondary education, has been honoured with the esteemed Richard Greig Award in recognition of his exemplary integrity and professionalism throughout his teacher training.

Ryan has recently completed the one-year Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) Secondary programme at the University of Aberdeen, specialising in Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies (RMPS). The award was presented on the final day of the programme, Tuesday 27th May, in celebration of his exceptional commitment, character, and promise as a future educator.

Alan Grieve, PGDE Secondary Programme Director, University of Aberdeen, said: “Ryan is a worthy recipient of the PGDE Secondary Richard Greig Award for 2024-25. His nominating tutor highlighted his outstanding care and support of his peers, demonstrating his exceptional professionalism and integrity. We wish Ryan all the best with his future career in education.”

Ryan shared: “It’s an honour to receive the Richard Greig Award for my PGDE. Over the past three years, RGC has played a pivotal role in shaping me as an educator. The encouragement, opportunities, and invaluable experience I’ve gained through After School Club have all had a lasting impact on my practice. I’m truly grateful to the staff and pupils for their support throughout this journey.”

Fiona McWilliam, PGDE Secondary tutor for RMPS, University of Aberdeen, commented: “Ryan proved himself to be a natural beginning teacher from the very start of the PGDE programme, and I am absolutely delighted that his character and caring attitude has been recognised in this way.”

Throughout the year, Ryan balanced the demands of the postgraduate course with a part-time role at the Robert Gordon’s College After School Club, where he further honed his skills in working with young people and supporting their development beyond the classroom.

Paul Keane, Out of Hours Care Manager, highlighted: “It has been a pleasure working with Ryan over the past few years and seeing first-hand his passion for education and helping others. Professionally, Ryan has been an incredible asset to the team, and personally, a genuinely nice person to get to know.”

Jane Tulloch, Head of Robert Gordon’s College Junior School, added: “Ryan is an exceptional person and it has come as no surprise at all that he has received such an esteemed award. He has made a lasting impression on both the children and staff here at RGC with his strong work ethic, natural rapport with children and ability to get the best out of our pupils across all stages.”

In August, Ryan will begin his probationary teaching year with the City of Edinburgh Council, where he is set to make a meaningful impact on learners in his classroom and continue his journey as a dedicated educator.