A FORMER history teacher has taken up the challenge of putting his stamp on future education in Barry’s all-girl secondary school as he takes on his new role as head teacher.

Tyrone Davies, who formerly taught at Bryn Hafren under the leadership of recently retired head teacher Phil Whitcombe, has returned to the comprehensive school from this week to steer the school into its next educational phase.

50-year-old Mr Davies, a dad of five, taught at Bryn Hafren between 1996 and 2009, and left to gain experience as a deputy head teacher and with that management.

He has also taught at Newbridge Comprehensive and arrives at Bryn Hafren Fresh from roles as head and deputy head teacher in Croesyceiliog Comprehensive.

Mr Davies said he was excited to learn of his appointment and re-visited the school before taking up the helm.

He said: “It was a little bit nerve-wracking. I felt I was achieving a vocation. I’ve had good wishes and congratulations from all I used to teach with and an ex caretaker. They said well done. You will make a good head teacher. I felt humbled, euphoric. I’ve done the right thing. Gosh I’m in charge in September.

“It does take a bit longer to earn the girls’ loyalty, but when you do there’s more of it.”

He paid tribute to his Phil Whitcombe, his predecessor’s work in building the school’s standards, and said he was keen to take it further as a 21st century school.

Outside school hours, Tyrone is a Cardiff City FC season ticket holder and enjoys reading Scandanavian noir thrillers. He likes modern history and the history of workers from the Industrial Revolution on. He enjoys travelling with a passion for Italy – wine, music, the culture and people.

“What’s not to like,” he said adding that Barry Island had been a childhood travel favourite with memories of the numbers on the walls, Butlins and the cable cars.

He added: “Barry is like the Valleys for its sense of community. There’s a nice atmosphere and people are open and want you to earn their respect. I’ve had the opportunity to come back and give a little bit more this time. I really do have a passion for Barry.”