Graduation 2011 – joyful celebrations in York Minster

Praise for the PGCE Secondary Partnership
The PGCE Secondary programme has been
rated by Ofsted as outstanding, with one of
the key strengths being the quality of the
partnership with schools.
Ofsted reported that there is “excellent
communication, mentoring and link
tutoring across the partnership, ensuring
that all those involved in training and
assessment work successfully together to
secure outstanding trainee progress”.
Keither Parker, Head of Programme for
PGCE Secondary, commented, “As well
as supporting our trainees on school
experience placements, our local schools
and mentors are involved in recruitment
and selection processes and programme
development. Some mentors and partners
deliver sessions to our trainees, providing
wonderful enrichment opportunities, and
some are involved in research activity with
the programme team.”
The proactive Secondary PGCE Steering
Group is chaired by local head teacher Jesús
Echevarría. He has expressed how pleased
he is with the Ofsted outcome, saying,
“The fact that the partnership work comes
in for particular praise is a tribute not only
to all the schools’ tutors and mentors, but
also of the continuing guidance and training
provided by York St John staff to ensure
that trainees receive the very best provision
and preparation in their chosen teaching
careers.”
Partners’ responses include:
“The report recognises the hard work that
all of us have expended on the course to
get it where it is today. I feel proud to be
part of the YSJ partnership.”
Ivan Noble, mentor,
Millthorpe School, York
“I was delighted by the outcome of the
report and the positive reference made
to the selection process which involves
trainees being interviewed by staff
and pupils at partnership schools – this
emphasises our involvement even before
a trainee begins their course.”
Julie Caddell, mentor,
Manor CE School, York
(left-right) Imelda O’Grady and Keither Parker
“Very little in the report came as a surprise!
As a mentor for the last four years, I know
how hard (and well) partnerships schools
work with the partnership office and
programme team. My congratulations
to all who contribute to this outstanding
programme.”
Shabana Jabbar, mentor,
York High School
Colin at the Palace
Director of Facilities Colin Parkin attended
an investiture ceremony at Buckingham
Palace on 12 October at which he was
appointed a Member of the British
Empire (MBE) by the Queen. Colin, who
has worked at York St John for 33 years,
received the honour in recognition of
his services to Higher Education. Under
his leadership, the Facilities team at York
St John have supported an £80 million
strategic transformation programme of
the University estate, winning a number
of high-profile awards for architectural
innovation and design. These include a
Royal Institute of British Architects
award and a York Design award for De
Grey Court.
Colin said, “Throughout my career I
have been fortunate to lead teams
of professionals, wholly committed
to improving the student and staff
experience. Every day presents us with
new challenges and also great rewards.”
Pictured right: Colin at Buckingham
Palace with (left-right) his son Tristan,
partner Priscilla and daughter Faye.
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