Chris Johnson Headteacher, Argyle House School
What, in your opinion, sets Argyle House School apart from other education providers?
We are a family-owned school, with an outstanding heritage. The size of our school allows the teachers and pupils to really know one another, which forms the most amazing bond with the children.
Argyle House School is known for its familyoriented environment. What is the impact this has on the development of children?
It allows the school to develop the whole child, so they feel strong in their academic ability, but also in their social ability and understanding of the world around them and how they can be a big part in its development.
How much emphasis do you place on extra curricular activities?
The school places a great emphasis on extracurricular activities because this helps develop the holistic child and gives them another purpose. We provide some fun clubs to clubs where abilities are pushed to achieve more.
What major student achievements have happened in the past 12-18 months?
Seeing our Year 11’s in August 2022, after two years of disruption all achieve past their target grades, where 85% achieved a grade seven and above. Watching the school ski team win the U19 National English ski trophy and then going onto the National competition and coming third in the U19 category when all of our boys are 16 years and younger. A final comment is that one of our ski team is representing Great Britain at the Youth Games in Turkey and another has become an ambassador for Snow Sport England.
What can prospective parents expect from Argyle House School?
Parents can expect a school which cares for the individual child and wants to help them achieve their personal goals.
What positive changes have you seen in education generally and what further changes would you like to see going forward?
One of the most positive changes I have seen recently is that Ofsted/ISI have gone back to looking at the whole education of the child, rather than just the academic. I would like to see further changes in the GCSE exam structure which allows children to be tested in different ways, rather than just being by an exam.
What is your fondest career memory?
Everyday I work at Argyle House School produces a memory for me, so I can’t say I have just one.
Who are your Heroes and Mentors?
I would have to say my mam, she showed me how to be compassionate and how to listen and help people, whereas my dad made me realise that I can always achieve in whatever I do.
How do you relax away from the desk?
Spending time with my family; watching my two boys play football for a local team on a Saturday and not forgetting walking my two dogs every day.