Meet Chris Johnson, Headteacher at Argyle House School, Sunderland, the only family owned and managed independent school in the North East of England. A school nestled in Ashbrooke, the leafy suburbs of Sunderland, since 1884.
In 2002, Jeff Johnson handed over the reins of Argyle House to his two sons, Chris and Neil. Jeff was a pupil at the school and in the later years he taught Maths there. He loved the school so much that he bought it in 1968 from the first family that owned it since 1884. After taking over, Chris has since steered the school into an educational establishment of repute in Sunderland and in the North East. With a degree in Environmental Science and Education from St. John’s, York, he is instrumental in developing the environment in the school for children to enjoy learning and instilling in them, the core values upon which the school was built, being strong family values. As a parent, with his two sons attending the same school, he understands children and their aspirations. Always ready to listen, with an infectious smile, Chris Johnson talks to Northern Insight about what makes this school, with a heritage of 134 years, enjoyable for children and appealing for parents.
On core strengths of Argyle House
“It’s a school where children come willingly to learn. Studying and learning are two different things. The willingness to learn comes from the kind of environment that a school has. When they are happy, they are more receptive to learn. Argyle House provides such an environment. Also this is not a school with 1000 children! Class numbers are small and there is merit in this structure. This enables our teachers to focus on a child’s strength, his or her interest and guide them accordingly. When a child is known individually to a teacher, this makes a tremendous difference in their development. Our teachers know each and every one of them. We never look upon a child as a student of the school. They are always looked upon as sons and daughters. When they come to school, they’re coming home. A place where they are loved and respected. We’re of the opinion that education must be enjoyed and it must give the child the chance to develop not just academically, but also physically, socially and emotionally too. Extra-curricular activities are crucial here. In fact, our clubs and activities are far ranging and we often have twenty running at any one time.”
On what children are taught, apart from the curriculum.
“Every generation carries on good values that have been passed on by the previous generation. Without that, society is heading for troubled waters. Our children today must be taught the importance of those values, of honesty, of respect, of kindness, of being responsible citizens, of humanity and above all, the value of hardwork and the importance of being a good human being. What we lay down as a foundation today will enable our children to build their future with confidence. We stress on the importance of what we call ‘The R-Principle’ where we encourage our children to be resourceful, resilient, respectful, responsible, reflective and to possess the ability to reason. Our teachers take on different roles apart from teaching such as being mentor guides, a friend who listens and comforts, a dad or mam who is stern but loving as well. When a school has such an environment, happiness takes over. ”
On key highlights over the years.
“Proud moments happen everyday. We’ve attained the highest possible rating by ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) in our most recent inspection. Our facilities are updated regularly and we’ve increased our wider partnership links. We’ve also devised new curriculums with our pupils in mind, which feature extra GCSE subjects. From a student accomplishment perspective, I’m proud to have a number of children who have excelled in their sporting endeavours. Two brothers claimed gold in European Gymnastics and one child represented Great Britain in Karate.”
On time away from being a Headteacher.
“Away from work, most of the time is spent with my family. I love watching my boys play football. You can find me walking the dogs and in the swimming pool, having a bit of me-time.”
Any wisdom to share?
“Hardwork pays. Everyone sees and applauds the person at the top of the mountain. But it’s good to reflect upon how they got there in the first place.”
