Improving Schools:

Following a positive performance review at Thomas Arnold Primary School in Barking, I was keen to learn more about the head-teacher; John Halliwell and how he transformed a school that was in the bottom 5% of schools in the country, to a school with ‘Outstanding Leadership and Management’.

An Interview with a phenomenal headteacher: John Halliwell:

When you visit Thomas Arnold, it is prominent that children are Thriving, Happy, Open Minded Achieving Students who respect their surroundings, but also have the freedom to express themselves positively.

Beyond running an exciting school, John likes to keep active by swimming & running. He also enjoys socialising with family and friends.

I asked John about what inspired him to become a head-teacher:

“I started my teaching career in 2001 wanting to teach food education to help ensure healthy education in secondary and primary schools. However, I found I was enjoying the primary experience and teaching a range of subjects appealed to me.

As time went on I wanted to make more of a difference…to be able to think about my own vision passionately and creatively but also balance it with also being able to teach.”

What’s the biggest challenge as a headteacher in 2015?
 “There’s a lot of pressure from government and media which hinders creativity and limits ability to create a well-rounded education that all children need.”

In spite of these challenges, John confesses that it’s a rewarding & humbling experience to develop pupils, staff and a whole school in a short space of time.

John’s experience with J and C Academy:
I’ve spent almost a year working together with J and C Academy as we wanted to introduce Spanish as part of the new curriculum. Children love the lessons delivered by Nora and J and C Academy have been an amazing asset to our curriculum.”

Intentions for his new School:
“When I move to Applegarth Academy in September, my focus will be helping to create a shared vision and expectations of really high standards; as well as ensuring the curriculum is fit for purpose. I need to make it clear to the community how we intend to create well-rounded individuals…”

Please feel free to comment on and share this blog. To find out more about schools we work with, please contact us: admin@jandcacademy.com

Enjoy Education!

Jazz Rose,
Director of Education,

www.jandcacademy.com