Tributes paid to ‘amazing’ head teacher who inspired so many
TRIBUTES have been paid to an “inspirational” former head teacher who has died suddenly. Steve Bowden was head teacher of the former Porth County Community School in Rhondda Cynon Taf between 1996 and 2011 and before that deputy head teacher at Treorchy Comprehensive from 1992 to 1996.
He went on to work as an educational consultant advising the Welsh Government, among others.
Announcing his passing on Facebook, his family said: “We are heartbroken that our family’s rock has been taken from us so suddenly. “
Mr Bowden, who was President of the Association of School and College Leaders Cymru from 2006-2007, went on to work as an education consultant in the public and private sector, helping forge educational policy and developments in Wales.
He was a director of Techniquest and also worked with the Motivational
Preparation College for Training.
Former Wales rugby international Morgan Stoddart, a former pupil, credited Mr Bowden with what he went on to achieve.
Morgan, who attended Porth County Community School until the end of sixth form, said he was a head teacher everyone respected and knew they could speak to.
“I am confident saying Steve Bowden being head during my time at the school helped me achieve as much as I did.
“He was quite strict but you knew you could always talk to him and ask him anything. He had a big impact on people.”
Eithne Hughes, director for ASCL Cymru, said: “ASCL Cymru and the education community was deeply saddened to learn of Steve Bowden’s passing.
“Steve was President of ASCL Cymru in 2006-2007 and was exceptional in this elected role.
“He was an intelligent, principled and highly respected educationalist and one who will be a significant loss to Wales.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Steve’s family at this difficult time.”
Rhondda MP Chris Bryant paid tribute on Facebook, saying: “Incredibly sad news for the Rhondda and Porth County Community School today following the unexpected passing of former head teacher Mr Steven Bowden.
“I always enjoyed working with Steve and I know he was devoted to giving every pupil the best possible chance in life.”
Councillor Gareth Caple, governor of Porth Community School, the allthrough school which replaced Porth County Community School, said Mr Bowden was well known and respected by generations in the area.
“He taught both my children, Emma and Edward. Edward is a doctor now. Steve was well respected and had a relaxed and welcoming attitude.
“He was just a very good man and very active in the community in Rhondda.”
Former pupils and colleagues remembered Mr Bowden for his encouragement.
Matthew McGregor wrote: “Steve was an amazing head teacher to work for, inspiring all his staff and students.
“He was an amazingly nice guy who made such a difference to everyone that encountered him.
“I will always be grateful for all the help he gave me in launching my teaching career.
“RIP Steve Bowden it was an absolute privilege working for you.”
Former pupil and later teacher Kirsty Regan wrote on Facebook: “Mr Bowden was inspirational for pupils, he gave us so many opportunities to prove ourselves and gifted us the confidence to know we could do well in whatever we chose to do.
“So much so that I ended up going back to Porth to teach years later. He was a truly beautiful person and he will be sorely missed. Thoughts and love to all the family.”
Manny Manfred, chair of trustees at the Motivation and Learning Trust, said where Mr Bowden was a trustee until 2015, said: “Though no longer an MLT Trustee, Steve maintained an interest in our charity by actively following our efforts and commenting on social media.
“Steve’s humble and unassuming persona hid his outstanding career in education.”