Latest news with #WelshBaccalaureate
Rhyl Journal
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Rhyl Journal
Rhyl: Leading light in tennis & politics earns alumni award
Jonathon Dawes was recognised by King's College London (KCL) – and the wider British sporting community – for his pioneering contribution to tennis development and grassroots inclusion. The 22-year-old, already the youngest member of the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) Council, received a Distinguished Alumni Award from KCL, following in the footsteps of names such as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Olympian Dina Asher-Smith. Having completed his A -Levels at Coleg Cambria's Deeside Sixth Form Centre in 2021 – where he achieved A*s in government and politics, economics, PE and the Welsh Baccalaureate – Jonathon moved to London to read philosophy, politics and economics. Jonathon Dawes (Image: Submitted) He has since returned to the college on several occasions to share his journey and inspire learners. 'It was Coleg Cambria that encouraged me to apply to university when I was considering other options, and I'm so glad they did,' he said. 'They nurtured my passion for tennis and gave me the confidence to think big.' While at KCL, Jonathon spent two years on its tennis committee and served as president in his final year, setting out an 'inclusive-by-design' vision to ensure every student could enjoy university life through tennis, increasing membership by 65 per cent and securing a partnership with global brand, Wilson. After graduating first-class with honours, he continued to volunteer with KCL Tennis, spearheading a programme which included its first LGBTQ+ tennis festival. In total, his post-graduation efforts have engaged 350+ students and unlocked more than £2,500 in new funding, while charity events have raised almost £1,000 for good causes. Jonathon is currently completing an MA in research methods for political science at Durham University. He will begin a PhD in September within the Department of Sport and Exercise Science, investigating politics and under-served communities in tennis. 'King's College London is a world-leading university, so to be recognised at such a young age is a huge honour,' he said. 'But this is only the beginning – I'm committed to making tennis more accessible for everyone, in Wales, the UK and beyond.'
Western Telegraph
30-04-2025
- General
- Western Telegraph
Pembrokeshire trio complete moonlit walk for Guide Dogs
Ysgol Bro Preseli students Llinos Stanford, Ava Dewsnap, and Gemma Armstrong, aged 14 and 15, walked 18.4 miles around Pantmaenog Forest with pet dogs Brooke and Tilly. Their effort aimed to raise awareness and funds for the charity as part of their Welsh Baccalaureate project. The walk, which took place before and after dark, encouraged supporters to consider the challenges of sight loss. The trio have raised £345 of their £500 target so far. The event was launched at the school by Adge John, owner of guide dog Skipp. He was impressed by the girls and said: "They asked lots of interesting questions about Guide Dogs. "They've set up a JustGiving page and we were delighted to make a donation." Supporters can help the trio reach their target via their JustGiving page.
