Featured Teacher
Peter Kubicki … an outstanding leader who works to produce the best outcomes
Tell us a bit about your role as Head of Secondary .
It is a rich and unique experience . The school ’ s vision of students as ‘ Academic leaders with Islamic values ’ captures the essence of our work . The vast majority of our students are of Qatari origin . Though many have royal or VIP connections , they are like children everywhere as they respond well to good teaching . Boys and girls are segregated for their education . Virtually all students will move on to University , whether locally in the world class Education City university facilities in Doha or abroad to universities in the US and UK .
In the recent past AJA has seen significant improvements , evidenced in our rising exam results profile , successful Qatar National Schools Accreditation and positive school ethos increasingly appreciated by our parents .
A
wise teacher understands that he stands to learn far more from his students than he can possibly teach them . This is true of Peter Kubicki ’ s journey as an educator .
Despite being happy in his Headship in England , Peter took advice he often shared with students and ‘ stepped outside his comfort zone ’ by moving to Qatar with his wife for an overseas experience .
Currently the Head of Secondary at Al Jazeera Academy , he aptly describes his time in the enterprising GCC country as “ increasingly rewarding .”
Peter has enjoyed a rewarding career in education . With nearly 38 years in the sector , he has spent 21 years in senior leadership roles in schools in London , Somerset , Lincolnshire and now Qatar .
His decision to teach was rooted in a genuine love for teaching and a passion for working with young people . Having led the Cordeaux School in Lincolnshire for 13 years , resulting in them being rated good with outstanding features in the Ofsted Inspections and a successful bidding project for a 7 million pound new build vocational centre to diversify the curriculum , Peter was invited to represent the school community at Downing Street and meet the Prime Minister in recognition of their achievement as one of the most improved schools nationally .
Peter ’ s dedication to excellence and commitment to education are essential in ensuring that the school achieves continued academic success . His track record is testament that Al Jazeera Secondary has secured an outstanding leader who works towards the best outcomes .
Our school is part of the wider ‘ all through ’ Academy with KG , Primary and Secondary all under the respected leadership of Sheldon Smith , our overall Academy Principal . The Academy is also part of a much bigger organisation – the Ta ’ allum Group of nearly 6000 pupils in 3 large Academies . Partnership and collaborative work are growing across the organisation and are key to success at every level . Our work with Sheila Thompson , an experienced Secondary consultant , is focused on school improvement with the quality of teaching and learning at heart . This work is impacting strongly on standards and achievement .
Who inspires you most ?
I have had the good fortune to cross paths with many inspirational people and colleagues . Experience has taught me it is important to be humble and aware enough to see the strengths and good in people . I keep in mind people I have met and learned from along the way , my father ’ s work ethic ,
34 | Mar - Apr 2017 | | Class Time