About Mike

I am an experienced, passionate, and knowledgeable Pastoral Manager with teaching experience. Over the past 25 years, I have supported children and young people, observing their development and progress academically, socially, emotionally, and morally. I firmly believe that a child's social development and well-being are crucial for reaching their full academic potential. By nurturing these qualities, I help students participate fully in school life, build resilience, and achieve their true potential.

At one of the schools where I served as Pastoral Manager, I successfully led the improvement of behaviour and attendance across Years 7 to 11. Through strategic use of tracking systems and collaboration with staff, I reduced low-level behaviour incidents by 33% and high-level incidents by 45%. This was achieved by targeting specific behaviours, isolating catalysts, and developing personalized strategies such as IBPs, exit passes, peer mentoring, and alternative timetables. These interventions significantly reduced referrals and empowered students to take responsibility for their learning and emotions.

Throughout my career, I have worked with pupils facing a variety of challenges, including bullying, anxiety, family relationships, sexuality, and medical issues. My role has often involved collaborating with parents, Governors, Educational Psychologists, CAMHS, School Nurses, and Social Workers to ensure appropriate support for students and their families.

Building strong relationships with pupils is central to my approach. I set high standards and expectations while being compassionate, consistent, and respectful. I believe that being genuine and authentic fosters trust and encourages positive responses from students. I am particularly dedicated to working with vulnerable pupils, including those with ACEs, helping them achieve their targets through one-to-one mentoring and emotional support. Tools like Stephen Peters' ‘The Chimp Paradox’ have been instrumental in helping students visualize and manage their emotions.

My approach to behaviour management focuses on positive reinforcement, which I see as vital for building self-confidence, self-worth, and a sense of purpose. Recognizing and praising students' efforts regularly is key to helping them overcome low self-esteem and underachievement.