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Gary Heath

Gary Heath

Profile

Class Teacher
Warren Road Primary School, Bromley
BA (Hons) in Philosophy, Nottingham University/PGCE (Primary), Roehampton University, London
Date of joining Fast Track: September 2004

"I have been on Fast Track for two years and have just finished my Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT) year. Already, I have had the opportunity to be involved in a large number of professional development events. I feel fortunate to have listened to some really positive and innovative ideas on issues such as behaviour management and creativity in the classroom – ideas I've since introduced within my school. Some of these must have worked, as I was nominated by my Year 5 children to be Bromley's Best Teacher. The local newspaper even ran an article on me entitled 'Mr Heath Makes Lessons Fun!' It was a real honour to be nominated.

"My Wider School Focus sits alongside my role as personal, social and health education (PSHE) and C co-ordinator, which involves running and overseeing whole school anti-bullying schemes, school council activities and co-ordinating health and safety talks from external agencies. Specifically, I have promoted and implemented the social and emotional aspects of learning (SEAL) initiative across the school from Reception to Year 6.

"My in-school mentor is there to provide help and advice whenever needed. It is reassuring for me as a new teacher to have someone in school who can provide ideas and advice based on years of teaching experience. Having a personal leadership tutor (PLT) is another benefit of the Fast Track Teaching Programme. I have regular phone contact with my PLT, who also endeavours to visit my school each term. It is another reassurance to have someone external to my school with whom I can talk if matters arise.

"A big challenge for me was preparing and leading a meeting in front of over 30 members of staff. This seemed a daunting prospect, but there was so much support around to help me: from my personal leadership mentor, my in-school mentor, and from members of the senior management team. I was very proud of the result, and the meeting was a success. I went on to promote the SEAL initiative at a governors' meeting the following week, and I have carried with me the confidence to contribute in staff meetings ever since."