John Gordon has been the appointed the Head Teacher at Tor View School since September 2020. The majority of his career has been in SEN schools for young people with ADHD, SEMH and trauma related needs. John has recognised how new understanding of the brain and trauma informed approaches make a substantial difference to the outcomes of young people who have the needs for an EHC plan. Teaching students whilst in leadership has given him the broad experience working at all levels within the school to aid an important understanding as to how best to motivate and lead staff to support young people to the best outcomes for them. His passion, drive and vision will move the school into its next chapter.
Head Teacher's vision
We as educators have the moral duty to provide the optimal conditions for learning, personal growth and well-being; achieving this through quality experiences and relationships. Every child should be given a high-quality education to enable them to have the greatest life opportunities and experiences that will assure successful, long and healthy lives. For young people with a disability, this is even more pertinent.
My vision is to provide and lead a team of specialist educators, expert in their field, driven by care and passion to deliver the optimal, if not transformational journey through childhood and adolescence
What the school aspires to provide:
A safe learning environment where personal growth of young people is at the heart of the school community mission. The curriculum will provide a variety of knowledge and experiences that will allow them to develop an interest and motivation to learn and thrive, whilst gaining new skills and understanding as they go. The staff team recognise the intricate complexities of each individual and work closely together to promote progress in overcoming challenges and work towards achieving short and long-term goals. By the end of their journey at Tor View School, we want the young people to be able to keep themselves safe. They should be able to access the world with a means of communication that works for them. They will know their strengths and how they can succeed as adults and use support if required. Above all, we want the students to be able to have satisfying lives through positive relationships and self-management.
What this will look like:
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A self-improving school system that inspires and influences all staff to consider how they, and the experiences they provide are significant to an individual child's journey
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Quality assurance processes to ensure the school systems are efficient and fit for purpose
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Excellence in teaching pedagogy
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An engaging and exciting curriculum to include real world experiences and appropriate career guidance
- Variety of curriculum pathways with bespoke additional opportunities
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Assessment used meticulously to identify next steps in the learning journey
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Self motivated, scholarly teachers who refer to the most current research based practices to deliver excellent education
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Close working partnerships with Local Authorities and other organisations to develop and promote the specialist offer and it’s good practice
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Specialist/specific training for all staff, including regular updates and refreshers
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Ensuring that the Independent School Standards are met
Our dedicated and caring staff team provide the stability and continuity that makes children and young people feel secure and ready to learn. They share a person-centred approach, placing each young person at the heart of all they do. Our staff are passionate about supporting every child to reach their potential and very proud of the positive outcomes that students achieve.
The extensively experienced school team includes a Head Teacher, Deputy Head Teacher, teaching and therapy staff. Staff are highly motivated, reflective and engaged, following evidence-based best practice, recognised strategies and approaches. There is a commitment to ongoing training and development for staff at our school that keeps their knowledge and practice up-to-date, innovative and effective. Our teachers have strong current subject knowledge that ensures a quality learning experience for our students.