“Teacher wins mentoring award” is the kind of headline that reminds us just how influential those in the profession can be.
This time round, the award winning educator is Luke Roberts who teaches sport and uniformed protective services at Richard Taunton.
His care and support for trainee teacher Henry Herklots has won him The Mentoring Above and Beyond Award.
The award from The University of Southampton came as a welcome surprise to Luke.
“The email just dropped into my inbox, and I was a bit shocked, but it’s nice,” said Luke.
“supportive” Teacher wins mentoring award
Henry was full of praise for his mentor.
“Luke has been incredibly supportive and consistently adaptable to my circumstances. He often goes above and beyond to make sure I have the support I need. He helps me feel comfortable and confident teaching during a challenging period for me. Luke has made me feel genuinely welcome within the department and regularly checks in on my wellbeing,” said Henry.
“Luke has exceeded every expectation in making me feel supported, valued, and at ease. He has adapted to my situation without ever making it feel like an issue. For his first time mentoring, I could not recommend him more highly. I would strongly encourage future trainees to complete their focus placement at Richard Taunton under his guidance,” added Henry.
motivated by past experience
New to mentoring, Luke knows how important a helping hand at the start of teaching can be.
“It was just making him feel comfortable and supported in his teaching, and work at a pace that’s suitable for him. We’ve seen that his personality’s starting to shine through. That’s a real sign he’s excelling in what he does,” Luke added.
influence of football career
Outside of the classroom, Luke plays football for Dorchester Town.
“I‘ve seen a lot of different coaches teach, and if you’ve got a squad of 20 players, you’ve got 20 different educational backgrounds and job roles in which people have learned those jobs. Seeing how a coach can adapt to all of those different needs has helped me understand how to get the best out of people, and I think I’ve been able to use all that knowledge,” Luke reflected.
As for his students’ career paths, Luke loves helping them on their way.
“I enjoy being able to showcase to them the many different opportunities that there are in sport and trying to help them figure out what they want to do. Seeing them go off to do it, whether it be university, employment or in an apprenticeship is really rewarding.” concluded Luke.
Teacher wins mentoring award and executive principal’s praise
Executive Principal Andy Grant is always keen to shine a light on well deserved awards.
“Luke is a tremendous asset to the college. I’m not surprised he goes above and beyond for a fellow teacher at the start of his career. I’m delighted he’s been recognised for all his effort,” said Andy.
The college offers a range of courses that help young people take steps towards teaching. To find out more, book a place at the next Richard Taunton open day on 14 May 2026.