Plaistow headteacher recognised by university
Paul Harris headteacher at Curwen Primary School (picture: Birmingham City University) - Credit: Archant
With so many young people able to go to university these days it is sometimes argued that studying for degree is a waste of time and you can learn the same skills at “the university of life”.
However, for one headteacher in Plaistow, university played a vital role in preparing him for the challenges of working in a primary school.
Paul Harris, head of Curwen Primary and Nursery School, has been recognised by Birmingham City University as one of its Alumni of the Year for turning around the fortunes of Curwen.
Paul graduated in 1998 with a BA in primary education and became headteacher at Curwen in 2006.
After three years under his leadership the school was rated “outstanding” by Ofsted.
“I am honoured to be named as an alumnus of the year, particularly as it is for doing a job that I love – most of the time!
“This award also means a huge amount to me as it recognises how much the university ensured that I was equipped to become a very successful teacher and leader in education.
Most Read
- 1 Stratford roof-terrace restaurant destroyed by late-night fire
- 2 Homes under the Planner: Applications lodged and approved in Newham
- 3 The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee flypast: Where, and when, the planes will fly over north and east London
- 4 Man dies after falling unwell in Stratford
- 5 Queen’s Platinum Jubilee: Street parties and road closures in Newham
- 6 Man held in murder probe after woman fatally stabbed in Custom House
- 7 Man charged with fatal stabbing of woman in Custom House
- 8 Two teenagers charged after 12 phones nicked in stealing spree
- 9 'Unexplained': Man dies after being found unresponsive in Plashet Park
- 10 Wanted: Five people Newham police wish to speak to
“The teaching practice and teaching skills that I gained on the course I still use today.
“But what I also took from the course was the sense of a learning community, working together and having the support of colleagues, which is still very important to me now.”
Despite the accolades Paul, who also won the TES headteacher of the year award in 2015, is more motivated by helping children develop.
“The most rewarding aspect of my job is seeing the success of our children and their development.
“I really enjoy the challenge and the fact that every day is different,” said Paul.