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The ���Ҵ�ý has announced that the winner of the 2025 Norah Isaac Memorial Award is Osian Williams, a BA Primary Education with QTS student from Cardiff. 

The Norah Isaac Memorial Award is awarded to the student that contributed the most, in the University’s opinion, to the institution’s Welsh life during the academic year. 

Norah Isaac was the main Drama and Welsh Lecturer at Trinity College Carmarthen for many years where she inspired generations of students. She nurtured cohort after cohort of students to become skilled teachers and they in turn thanked her for the opportunity they were given to learn at the feet of a master.       

With support and through the generosity of Carmarthen’s Civic Society, it was arranged that Ffion would receive her award in a reception on the Carmarthen campus during the graduation ceremonies.  

Osian said: 

“It’s a great honour to receive the Norah Isaac Memorial Award this year. The Welsh language is incredibly important to me, and being part of the University’s Welsh Society was one of my goals even before starting at university. I’ve been lucky enough to be part of the Society for three years, during which I’ve made lifelong friends. 

“The Primary Education course has been fantastic, providing constant and meaningful contact with a close-knit team of supportive lecturers. It’s been a real pleasure to be a student at this university.” 

Coming from the capital, Osian was eager to study somewhere different, and Trinity Saint David appealed to him because of its reputation as one of the top universities for teacher education. 

“I was drawn to UWTSD because of its strong reputation for teaching, the chance to form lifelong connections with peers and lecturers, and the welcoming atmosphere I experienced from my very first open day visit.” 

Osian chose to study the course because of his passion for teaching and knew it would equip him with the knowledge and practical skills needed for his future career. He added: 

“My aim was to deepen my understanding of primary education, build my confidence, and prepare for a career in the education sector. I also wanted to challenge myself and take full advantage of the opportunities that university life offers — including being a member and president of the Welsh Society and having the chance to play football for the University’s sports academy.” 

For Osian: 

“The course offers excellent teaching, a supportive community, and a real focus on preparing students for life after university. I felt valued as an individual and was encouraged to reach my full potential. What appealed to me most was the close relationship between staff and students. We were a small group, we all got on really well and made lifelong friends, and it was hugely beneficial to have such great communication with lecturers to ensure I was doing my best and had all the information I needed.” 

Fiona Jones, Programme Manager of the BA Primary Education with QTS course, said: 

“Osian’s passion and enthusiasm for all things Welsh — language and culture — have been an inspiration to his peers across the University during the past year. 

“As President of the Welsh Society this year and Vice-President last year, he has been a fantastic ambassador for the Welsh language and culture, working tirelessly with fellow students. He organised a range of Welsh-medium events and promoted them using social media in a highly creative way. He encouraged students to participate in Coleg Cymraeg activities and to attend the Gangen Dinner at Yr Egin. A highlight of the past year was co-organising a trip to Dublin for the Six Nations Championship, encouraging second-language students to join the trip to immerse themselves in the Welsh language. 

“During his successful professional teaching experience, he worked to raise the language standards of the young learners in his care by running engaging activities to promote the Welsh language. He completed a Welsh-language portfolio and assessment, where he had to develop the language skills of his pupils and produce a video as evidence. It is therefore a privilege to nominate Osian as a thoroughly deserving candidate for this prestigious award.” 

Councillor Peter Hughes Griffiths from the Carmarthen Civic Society added: 

“It’s a privilege for the Carmarthen Civic Society to present the Norah Isaac Memorial Award this year to student Osian Williams, who has worked tirelessly to promote the Welsh language on the Carmarthen campus of the ���Ҵ�ý. During her time as a lecturer at the college, Norah always placed great importance on using Welsh in college life and valued the linguistic and cultural contributions of students. It’s wonderful to know that Osian has been so prominent in all the Welsh-language activities on campus and is a truly worthy recipient of this award.” 

Osian is looking forward to starting his career as a teacher in Barry. 

“I’m excited about what the future holds and am grateful to Trinity Saint David and its wonderful staff and lecturers for helping me get to this point.” 

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476