Gayle Shenton

Gayle Shenton is the headteacher at Ysgol Gymraeg Castell-nedd and prior to that was headteacher at Ysgol Llwynderw and Ysgol Felindre in Swansea. Gayle has been a leader in the Welsh and English medium sectors and is currently seconded to Neath Port Talbot Local Authority as ‘Professional Learning Lead.’

Throughout her career Gayle has actively engaged with professional learning and this learning has developed her passions within education e.g. well-being, pupil voice, foundation phase pedagogy, Welsh language education across sectors and particularly leadership.

Gayle has had opportunities to visit Sweden, a visit that reinforced her passion for quality opportunities for the youngest pupils and outdoor learning. She also visited Zambia through a partnership project with Swansea University and found the aspirations and joy of the pupils and teachers, in such challenging circumstances was inspiring.

“Becoming an Associate is one of the highlights of my career as it allows me an opportunity to work with, and learn from other leaders across Wales, whilst engaging with new learning and supporting change.

I hope to share the opportunities that I am given with colleagues and be able to encourage young aspiring leaders and teachers to actively engage in research and professional learning in order that they can develop the skills and attributes needed to ensure that children and pupils in Wales get the best opportunities.”

Gayle is married with two grown up children, two dogs a cat and a campervan. Gayle enjoys spending time with family and friends and being by the beach is her happy place.