Award for Ridgeway School teacher

A teacher from a Plympton school has been recognised by a Government run agency set up to improve the quality of education and help schools to help each other.

Ian Hartley who is Head of Religious Studies and Personal Development curriculum at Ridgeway School has been awarded The National College of Teaching and Leadership Specialist Leader of Education (SLE) certification.

This award recognises outstanding leaders who are supporting other schools and sharing good practice. Ian is just one of 6,000 designated SLE’s in the UK and the role lasts for four years.

“I am delighted to have been recognised for what I have done within Ridgeway and in supporting others schools too” said Ian Hartley. “I have a fantastic department who all work together to achieve this.”

To achieve the SLE Ian Hartley had to submit a detailed application proving among many things excellent communication and interpersonal skills, an understanding of how his specialism and skills can contribute to a wider school community and the ability to grow leadership in others.

“This recognition not only proves what a great teacher Ian is but that he leads a strong department within the school as well as supporting other schools and sharing good practice,” said Lisa Boorman, principal designate of Ridgeway School. “It was a thorough application procedure and Ian had to provide evidence that his work has had a positive impact on outcomes for young people by developing leadership capacity in other schools.