Global News Podcast The Happy Pod: Former teacher celebrated as a crocodile
13 snips
Feb 21, 2026 
Holly Gibbs, BBC reporter who produced the pieces, joins Rhys Jones, a physics teacher honoured by a former pupil, and Ewan Bodenham, a PhD physics student and palaeontologist who named a new crocodile species after his teacher. They chat about discovering Galahadosuchus jonesi, surprising Rhys with the news, and how that recognition inspires school communities and students today.
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Crocodile Named After Teacher
- Ewan Bodenham discovered a new Late Triassic crocodile and named it Galahadosuchus jonesi after his physics teacher Rhys Jones.
- Rhys described the Zoom reveal as an unexpected privilege and felt deeply honoured by the gesture.
Local Role Models Make Success Tangible
- Rhys Jones says local success stories make big achievements feel attainable to current students.
- He expects Ewan's example to boost students' belief that they can 'reach the top.'
Teach With Passion And Respect
- Have genuine interest in your subject and treat students with respect to inspire them.
- Rhys Jones's teaching approach shows humour and adult treatment help students feel valued and motivated.