1. J.D. Kingham - Educational Philosophy
A school is the cornerstone not only of a child’s future but also of the community. Our role as
teachers is to ensure that one is equipped to contribute to the other to the best of their ability
academically, socially and morally. By educating our students to become independent learners of
the highest character we are helping them to mold a future society that continually improves upon
itself. For an educational institution to achieve this vision it relies upon its leadership team, teachers,
students, parents and local community working in partnership with a common commitment to the
value of academic and pastoral development.
Academic Development: The key to any outstanding lesson is its accessibility to a student. Regular
formative assessment opportunities allow teachers to evaluate and plan lessons that are tailored to
their students’ level and method of understanding so that they may be both supported and
encouraged to rise to the challenge of understanding and applying unfamiliar concepts. How well a
student performs academically depends upon the ability of planning to provide for every child,
including EAL, SEN or G&T students, in a way that is relevant to their personal and cultural
experiences. Lesson delivery should make use of the most up-to-date pedagogy and technology to
ensure that not only it is effective and relevant to a student’s method of understanding but also that
students are motivated enough to seek out further knowledge independently.
Pastoral Development: Our students are entrusted to us in the knowledge that we will provide for the
development of the whole child through pastoral activities. Opportunities in the school, local and
global communities are an essential part of any curriculum whether it is PSHE and Citizenship lessons
or through student connectedness. Enabling students to experience the world through business links
and trips allows them to discover their potential role within it for themselves. Sporting activities,
competitions and extra-curricular activities promote the vision of an outstanding school and
strengthen the character of its students. The role of parents in pastoral development is vital and
organisations such as PTAs add an extra dimension to pastoral provision by showing a community of
stakeholders working together.
School Leadership: All schools, and their teachers, require strong leadership to be outstanding. A
leader’s primary role is to promote the vision and mission of the school with all stakeholders through
enthusiasm, dedication and professionalism. The ability to manage effectively relies heavily upon the
relationships built with all stakeholders and an awareness of both their strengths and weaknesses. The
role model of an experienced and exemplary classroom practitioner will inspire staff to develop their
practice for the benefit of all students. Knowledge of current trends in education, whether it be new
curricula or pedagogy, and an ability to inform, motivate and support staff through CPD is essential.
The ability to interpret data ensures a school is moving forward and aiming higher in all areas each
year.
Teaching Experience: Throughout my UK and international teaching career, in Asia and the Middle
East, I have had the ability to integrate my teaching experience with the needs of my students,
whether they have been native speakers of English or EAL learners from different cultural
backgrounds. I have always valued strong links with parents by running PTAs and organising school
ECAs and events. As Primary Deputy Head of Pastoral at my present school in Qatar I have risen to
the challenge of a new cultural experience to build a strong working relationship with staff and
parents who have confidence in my cultural awareness and dedication to students, particularly
those with behavioural challenges or additional social/emotional needs. By working in partnership
with families and colleagues I aim to ensure that each child in my care is nurtured and supported
equally in an environment of mutual trust and respect.
Personal Details: I am married with one son, my wife being a Taiwanese non-teacher who is HR
Manager at our present school. I have lived in South-East Asia and the Middle East for fourteen years.
I am aware of, and sensitive to, the cultural differences and ways of life of both Asian and Arab
cultures and am able to quickly adjust to life in any country.