Gold Star

During my twenty one years as a teacher I have experience of teaching from Kindergarten, year/grade 1,2,3,4,5, and 6(sixth grade), in addition to Senior Manager roles, in public and private schools. This has given me an in-depth knowledge of how children progress throughout their school life and a strong understanding of the whole learning process. I have also spent 3 years as whole school Leader of Reading and Writing and 3 years as whole school Leader of Maths. In the U.K. teachers teach all subjects up to Year/Grade 6 and so I have a wealth of experience across the range of subjects.

In the classroom I encourage children to work to their full potential by creating a calm, safe and positive learning environment. I develop independent learning by organising the classroom based on the needs of the children. I use ongoing assessment techniques to inform me of achievement, and attainment. I am an advocate of pupil led learning and encourage this through careful questioning during whole class sessions and through regular use of talk partners. Using these techniques and more I make learning enjoyable and varied whilst meeting curricular objectives and aims. I advocate positive behaviour management techniques and believe that the best way to ensure positive behaviour is by planning stimulating and rewarding lessons and through positive praise and expectations. I have enjoyed very good relationships with my pupils which has helped me to create an environment where children are not afraid of mistakes as they know we will build upon them to improve. Through excellent planning I am able to deliver relevant, clear, interesting and fun lessons which are differentiated to allow all children to achieve their full potential. I have planned and differentiated for classes with wide ranging ability levels e.g. my last Year 4 class attainment ranged from Kindergarten - Year/Grade 6 level. I have also planned for a variety of Special Educational Needs including gifted and talented children, autistic, dyslexic, behavioural, children with home trauma and a range of learners with English as a second language. I ensure that my teaching is focused and effective by using ongoing assessment and regular summative assessments to inform my planning. I have extensive experience and training in the use of Assessing Pupil Progress and the use of data from optional SATs testing. I also place great value on pupil self assessment techniques such as peer marking and pupil self assessment using given success criteria’s. I have always enjoyed positive relationships with colleagues and parents and believe myself to be very approachable and accessible. I have found that my calm manner, honesty and sense of humour help students to feel at ease when speaking to me about a variety of matters.

I obtained an 'Honors' award on completion of my degree 'Product Design'. I have a Post Graduate qualification in Education. I have comlpeted numerous professional development courses including in student Assessment, Maths and School Leadership.

1990 - 1997 - High school 10 GCSE's & higher qualifications in English Literature and Art History. 1997 - 2000 - University BSc Degree in 'Product Design'. 2000 - 2001 University PGCE Post Grad qualification in Primary Teaching (Kindergarten - Year/Grade 6.)

In addition to my experience with students, I am a proud father of three, two boys and a girl. I consider myself very computer literate and use a range of programs such as Microsoft Suite, Photoshop, Illustrator, Movie Maker, Inkscape and have made my own design website (I have worked as a designer too!) Therfore if you need any resources 'designed' please contact me. When I get the chance to relax I enjoy playing guitar, exercise and good movies!