Tributes have been paid to an "exceptional" former assistant headteacher from St Joseph's Catholic School and Sixth Form Centre in Port Talbot after he sadly died on Monday.
Hundreds of thoughtful tribute messages from former students and members of the community have been shared on social media, following the school's announcement that Arthur Gwynn, who was also the head of sixth form and a history teacher at the school for several years, had died after a period of illness.
Friends and colleagues have remembered Mr Gwynn as being one of the "most caring, determined and selfless people" they'd ever met and said his work and legacy "will live on for a very long time". You can read more stories about Port Talbot here.
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Announcing Mr Gwynn's passing, a statement on social media from the school said: "It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the death of Arthur Gwynn, former assistant headteacher and head of sixth form.
"Arthur passed away yesterday [Monday, February 21] after a period of illness. He was a much respected and admired teacher at St Joseph’s for many years.
"We keep Arthur and all his family in our thoughts and prayers."
Were you taught by Mr Gwynn? You can share your memories, or a tribute message to his loved ones, in the comments below this article.
Mr Gwynn began teaching at St Joseph's Catholic Comprehensive School, where he once attended as a pupil, in January, 1986, after teaching at St Joseph's Primary School in Neath.
Over the years, he took on a range of roles and responsibilities in the school, including being a history teacher then becoming the head of the history department, head of sixth form and finally assistant headteacher. He retired in 2015, after 30 years at St Joseph's.
Paying tribute to his former colleague, deputy headteacher at St Joseph's, Dr John Felton, said: "Arthur was one of the most caring, determined and selfless people I have ever met. Arthur was an exceptional teacher, mentor and a good friend to many.
"Arthur shaped so many lives for the better. As head of history, head of the sixth form and as assistant headteacher, Arthur provided a first-class service to the the school community of St. Joseph's. Arthur always found time for a chat, and his invaluable advice not only helped his students but also his fellow colleagues who regarded him as a brilliant role model. A true gentleman. His work and legacy will live on for a very long time."
Assistant headteacher at St Joseph's, James Torrance, added: "Arthur was a remarkable teacher and admired leader at St Joseph’s.
"The impact that he had on the lives of so many young people, especially in the sixth form, can be seen by the many hundreds of tributes paid to him since past pupils and colleagues heard this sad news.
"He was well respected by so many for his heartfelt dedication to the pupils and someone who truly cared about his job and vocation.
"His love for history and teaching style are the reasons why many of his pupils continued the study of the subject at university or became teachers themselves.
"His former colleagues will miss his wisdom, wit and support as a mentor and friend. He is remembered fondly by all at St Joseph’s."
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