Neil F.
About me
| Neil F. | |
| Music | |
| Music and Education | |
| Undergraduate | |
| 1988 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Head of Service School Improvement | |
| Salford City Council | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Education | |
| Large business (250+ employees) | |
| 2018 |
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A day in the life of a Head of Service School Improvement in the United Kingdom
I had no idea where teaching would eventually take me..
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
Salford City Council provides numerous services to schools in the area. This ranges from services to do with school buildings, school meals, education psychology services, services involving safeguarding and child protection and a whole range of support for children with special educational needs and disabilities.
What do you do?
I support school headteachers to improve the quality of education in their schools. I provide direct support and challenge as well as commissioning support from other providers.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I started as a music teacher and worked my way up to being a Deputy Headteacher in a large London comprehensive school. I decided I wanted a job working across a number of schools, using the skills I had developed in my role as deputy, and school improvement seemed to offer this opportunity. I started as a school improvement advisor and then did a stint as one of Her Majesty's Inspectors of schools. I then decided to go back into local government. I also continue to develop my knowledge and skills and have undertaken numerous courses, including an MA in education .
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
I always wanted to be a teacher, so this is the sector I intended to go into. I had no idea where teaching would eventually take me though.
Describe your most memorable day at work
After supporting a school for over 18 months with regular visits, I was overjoyed on the day that Ofsted inspectors took it out of special measures and judged it to be a good school.. I felt I had at least played a small part in this success.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
Lots. Every school is different and requires a different approach. You have to be good at analysing and diagnosing problems and helping schools find solutions that work.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Very supportive. We work as a team and we all bring different perspectives and ideas to the table.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I was a member of several orchestras and music ensembles. This certainly helps with becoming an effective team player.
What would you like to do next with your career?
I am fortunate to have already had a varied career , from classroom teacher to head of department then onto Deputy head. After this, undertaking various roles in three local authorities and being one of Her Majesty's Inspectors of schools. I am not sure where I will end up next.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Enjoy your course, you are in a fantastic university. Immerse yourself in things that interest you. Try to get some work experience by volunteering or working part-time. If possible learn a language. Do one or two extra curricular activities outside of your subject to broaden your horizons and meet new people.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Any topics really. Feel free to contact me.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
I am based in the North West area. I am still very busy with playing music in my spare time, so I haven't totally removed myself from the subject I loved at York.
Next steps...
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