Matthew, Head Teacher

Matthew is a Head Teacher at a Five Rivers combined Residential and Educational provision that has attained an Ofsted rating of “Outstanding” for its care and teaching. He works with our Clinical Services team to provide intense therapeutic education for children in our residential care aged between 7 and 10 on admission. 

How long have you worked at Five Rivers?

Over three years.

Have you always worked in education?

Yes, I’ve worked in education since I was 19-years old. I’ve always had a real passion to make a change and provide the next generation with the best possible start in life.

Over the last 14 years, I’ve worked in a multitude of educational settings, ranging from mainstream high school in Sheffield to an EBSD residential school in Scarborough. I can honestly believe teaching is in my DNA! I’ve taught PE, ICT, Careers at KS3 & KS4 and I’m now teaching an eclectic primary KS2 curriculum covering all core and foundation subjects.

What’s the best thing at your school?

The best thing about both our House and School is the dedication that each staff member has towards ensuring that all the children are provided with the best possible care and education. Also, no matter what, our staff members make sure that it’s like home from home.

The environment created is so welcoming.

What do you do to relax?

I really enjoy being physically active and in my down time, I love attending the local gym, going for runs and playing football.

Tell us something interesting about you:

At the age of 11, I represented England against Scotland in Boxing! This took place at Bolton Town Hall in front of a few hundred people. I remember it being a very daunting experience, all stood in a circle whilst our national anthems were playing and then swapping medals with your opponent beforehand. Something I will never forget.

Did this experience teach you anything that helps you in your job with young people?

It taught me to grasp every opportunity with both hands, and whatever you put into a project or a task is what you’ll get out of it. I feel this is one of the reasons why the school received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from OFSTED.

What are your career aspirations and how could Five Rivers help you reach them?

I truly feel that I’ve found my calling at Five Rivers and see myself being here for the duration of my career continuing to develop and pursue towards receiving another ‘Outstanding’ rating. My main aspirations are to keep on giving back to each and every young person I have the pleasure to teach and provide my staff team with the same (if not better) opportunities to develop that I’ve had.