A teacher from Dunoon Grammar School was awarded the title of Apps for Good’s ‘UK Educator of the Year’ at a prestigious awards ceremony in London last week.
Paul Gallanagh, Principal Teacher of Business and Computing, was at the Apps for Good final with pupils from the school when he received the accolade.
Two teams of youngsters from Dunoon Grammar made it to the final after creating two unique mobile apps, 'safe sockets' and 'nightlight', and beating off stiff competition from 25,000 others.
Mr Gallanagh said: “It is a real honour to be awarded this accolade from such a prestigious, innovative and creative organisation. The Apps for Good programme has helped us revolutionise our provision of Computing Science.
"I would like to thank all the amazing staff in the Business and Computing department and the various industry experts who have supported our pupils on the Apps for Good initiative this year.
"Also, our Head Teacher, David Mitchell, who is a fantastic support to us all. The pupils never cease to amaze me with the creative ideas they generate on this rich learning experience. They are a credit to the school and the community of Dunoon."
Argyll and Bute Council’s Policy Lead for Education, Councillor Yvonne McNeilly said: “Congratulations to Paul on this fantastic achievement and to the pupils who made it through to the final. We have hard-working pupils and staff to be proud of in Argyll and Bute.
"Our schools are achieving great things, many of which are award winning, and our vision is that together we will realise ambition, excellence and equality for all. We will continue to work hard to ensure that our young people are equipped to achieve success in life.”
This is the second year in a row that Dunoon Grammar has made it to the national Apps for Good final. Last year, it was crowned Apps for Good UK School of the Year.