MY BURFORD - MR J BELMONT - PUPIL PREMIUM ADVOCATE AND GEOGRAPHY TEACHER

Our Pupil Premium Advocate and Geography teacher Jack Belmont reflects on his role and time at Burford School as part of our 'My Burford' series.

This feature series aims to shine a spotlight on the superb staff team at Burford who make it possible for us to offer 'the best of education' to our students.

"I have worked at Burford School for 5 years now after being given Burford as my first PGCE placement. It's strange to think that the first lesson I observed was in the classroom I now teach. I remember how lucky I felt when a job for a Geography teacher came up as I was nearing the end of my placement. I applied, got an interview, and was fortunate enough to get the job, which started in September 2019.

My job at school has become split into 3 roles. First and foremost, I am a Geography teacher across Year’s 7 to 13. I also teach Travel and Tourism at GCSE, which as a vocational course is really enjoyable as it is completely different from most other subjects. As of September 2023, I have also been Pupil Premium Advocate, where I look to support students from Forces and Free School Meal backgrounds, which has been incredibly fulfilling. 

I really enjoy working with all students, from different backgrounds, abilities and interests. The great thing about teaching is that no day is the same, just like no student is the same. It is great to work with such a diversity of talent every day and play a part in students making progress. 

The people make Burford a great place to work. Staff and students alike make Burford School a lovely place to work. Working within the Geography department is the most supportive and inspiring team I have been a part of. It is great to work so closely with brilliant people who get on so well together. There has never been a day I haven't wanted to come to work.

It is impossible to pick one highlight of my time here, however every trip I have been on has to be up there. The A-Level trip to Slapton is always great fun and the Gibraltar Sports Tour 2024 was epic. Mr Greens' Spanish was truly exceptional throughout the trip as well, which could also be a highlight of my time at Burford!

I have been teaching here since September 2019, which means about 1/3 of my career has been during 'COVID times', which is a really strange thought. I think that has probably been the biggest change that I have gone though, moving in and out of lockdowns, adapting school life to COVID and then the transition back to normal again. That all seems a long time ago now!

I always look forward to the school plays. Whether it is led by Mr Frankcom or Mr Brookes, it is always incredible. Whenever I have watched one of the productions, I have had to remind myself that it isn't actually a west-end production. It is a massive credit to all the students and staff who get involved.

Outside of work you would find me either playing or watching sport. I play for Great Tew Cricket Club in the summer and try to watch as much Rugby as I can in the winter. I follow Bath Rugby club and Oxford United Football Club and try to get along to watch as much of them as I can. I also love any live music. There were strong rumours around school that I went to see Harry Styles last summer, which I am afraid are true. If it helps, I have also seen Sam Fender and Billy Joel as well recently, which I hope is enough to convince everyone that I do have good taste in music!

I am currently planning for the new academic year with lots of exciting opportunities for our Pupil Premium students. My big focus at the moment is developing our support for Forces students and Free School Meal students. I am excited about some of the great opportunities we have in the pipeline for these students this year.

Three words that describe Burford are forward-thinking, nurturing, and well-rounded."