Throughout his time at Truro High School, Mr Dean has transformed a traditional science department into a highly successful, cutting-edge STEM faculty with STEM teaching embedded for all pupils, from 4 to 18 years old.
Last year, a third of sixth-form students were accepted on to medicine or medical-related courses having followed Jon’s aspiring medics programme. Jon leads his team in regular off-timetable days to benefit the school and others through events such as Women in Engineering Day where the school hosts 150 Year 8 students from local state schools.
Jon is also keen to develop space science and led the school in forming a partnership with the Roseland Observatory. The school is now home to an observatory and houses the only solar telescope on mainland UK and, thanks to Jon’s work, has a weekly astronomy club with students frequently choosing to take a GCSE in astronomy a year early “just for fun”.
Judge David James said he was impressed by “the sheer range and scope of his achievements, all coming from a passion for science.”
Mr Dean said: “This is my 40th year of teaching. This award means a lot to me and the pupils I teach. My advice to other teachers is to be as inspiring as you can be.”
Chief judge of the Tes Schools Awards and Editor of Tes magazine Jon Severs said:
“The Tes Schools Awards are the Oscars of education, recognising and celebrating everything that’s great about our schools and school staff. We had so many entries from teachers and schools across the country; choosing the winners was no easy task. Congratulations to the winning schools and thank you to all school staff who do such vital work every day.”
Today Headmistress Sarah Matthews was there to welcome Mr Dean back to school along former Head Girl and aspiring doctor Meenakshi and alumna Jolie who is currently studying at the Royal Veterinary College after following the Aspiring Medics Programme here at Truro High.
Congratulations Mr Dean – we are so incredibly proud!
