Tony Gavin – BA (Hons), NPQH

From humble roots as a teacher of Physical Education and Geography in Batley and Dewsbury, I progressed through the system to become a Head of Department in Cambridge, a Head of Community Sport in Peterborough, where I was seconded onto the Leadership team and became a fascinated student of School Leadership. I was encouraged to apply for Deputy Headships and was successful in York where I stayed for 10 years, being promoted to Headteacher in my third year at Burnholme, leading the school community through many challenges and thoroughly enjoying my time there with the support of an inspirational and indomitable staff team.

My parents moved back to their beloved NE in 2007 and to spend more time with them in their ‘Twilight’ years I applied for and was selected as Headteacher at a large Secondary school in Guisborough, Laurence Jackson School in Redcar and Cleveland local authority. Whilst at LJ, I was elected Chair of the School Improvement Group and also played a key role in the design, planning and construction of a new learning environment to replace the deteriorating existing school building.

I have always been passionate about engaging, supporting and empowering children and families in deprived, challenging and vulnerable circumstances and held a keen interest in SEND + PSHE and inclusion throughout my career. My educational philosophy has always been about personalization and is completely inclusive as expressed in the mission statement for Laurence Jackson School which was to “Improve the Life Chances of ALL children, regardless of ability, background or circumstance”. This involved tough decisions about allocation of resources to reflect educational priorities, equality and access to ensure that all young people were treated as important individuals and had equal opportunity to succeed. Regular individual mentoring and constant parental engagement were key elements of this process.

I have been a long-time admirer of Tang Hall Smart, have good experience of the nature of East York from my time at Burnholme and I am excited by the prospect of working with the excellent team to provide opportunities for those currently facing disadvantage and challenge. I am highly impressed by the philosophy of Tang Hall Employment charity and believe we can work together effectively to make a real positive difference to those young lives by providing high quality preparation and support in our joint quest to integrate them into genuine and meaningful employment which will enhance their lives in so many ways.