Staff Profile: Hannah Burrows-Beck

Can you provide a brief overview of your career path and what led you to your current position at The Harbour School?

My career path began in a Portsmouth mainstream education setting, where I developed a strong foundation in teaching. During this time, I became increasingly aware of the unique challenges faced by students with SEN and SEMH needs. I then took a brief career break from teaching, to develop my skills in a social care setting. Working in the charity setting deepened my understanding of social-emotional needs and the importance of inclusive education. This combination of experiences ultimately led me to pursue a position at The Harbour School, where I can apply my skills and passion for helping students with SEMH needs thrive in a nurturing and tailored learning environment.

What motivated you to apply for this role at The Harbour School?

I was motivated to apply for a role at The Harbour School because of its commitment to fostering a forward-thinking, inclusive environment that prioritises the growth of every student. The school’s focus on meaningful support in partnership with learning aligns with my passion for helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential. The opportunity to contribute to a new campus structure and environment at The Bay further confirmed for me that this was an environment I wanted to teach in.

Which of The Harbour School’s core values (Grow, Learn, Achieve) resonates most with you, and how do you see it reflected in your work?

The core value of ‘Grow’ resonates most with me because growth is not only about academic progress but also personal, social, and emotional development, especially in a special school setting. In my work, I focus on nurturing each student’s unique potential by creating a learning environment that encourages resilience and self-reflection. By celebrating every milestone and achievement, I support our young people to build confidence and view challenges as opportunities for learning. Growth also involves collaborating with families and other agencies to ensure that students’ progress is meaningful, making every step forward a success.

What are your goals and priorities in this role?

As a teacher at The Harbour School, my primary goal is to create a safe, supportive learning environment where students feel understood, valued, and capable of overcoming challenges. I prioritise building strong relationships with our young people, understanding their individual needs, and helping them develop essential skills like critical thinking and empathy through the study of diverse cultures and historical events. When every student leaves The Bay I want them to have a greater understanding of their place in the world, and be confident global citizens. As our young people progress through KS4 I want to immerse them in an exciting GCSE curriculum, and support embedding this across the site.

What specific challenges do you anticipate facing, and which one excites you the most?

Working at an SEMH setting comes with different challenges you may not face in mainstream teaching. Adapting lessons in a special school setting is essential to meet the varied needs of students. Due to differences in ability, I modify the content and approach, offering multiple ways to access material, such as through visual, auditory, or hands-on activities. For students with inconsistent attendance, I ensure lessons are flexible, allowing them to catch up without feeling overwhelmed. In terms of attitudes, I tailor lessons to engage students positively, taking into account the young people’s SEMH needs to keep them interested and focused, while offering encouragement and support when challenges arise. I am excited to bring this enthusiasm and skill set to my GCSE class this academic year, and begin supporting our young people through an AQA Geography scheme of work.

What do you believe is the most rewarding aspect of working at The Harbour School?

The most rewarding aspect of working at The Harbour School is the opportunity to witness the transformation of students as they access a learning environment suitable for their needs. At the Harbour School, I can see first-hand how tailored teaching methods and a nurturing atmosphere can ignite a love for learning, boost confidence, and enhance social skills. Celebrating the unique successes of each student, whether academic or personal, fosters a sense of community and belonging that is incredibly fulfilling.

In your opinion, what qualities make a successful educator in a special school setting?

A successful educator in a special school setting must possess patience, empathy, and adaptability, allowing them to understand and meet the unique needs of each young person. Strong communication skills are crucial for engaging students with all abilities, and creativity helps design lessons that cater to different learning styles. Resilience is paramount for handling challenges, while still enjoying the learning time. Collaboration with parents, therapists, and support staff is essential to provide holistic support, and maintaining a structured yet flexible environment fosters student growth and achievement.

Can you share a personal interest or hobby that you enjoy outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling both nationally and internationally, with my next trip to Costa Rica to visit the tropical rainforest. I enjoy spending time with my two sausage dogs and completing local walking routes with them over the weekend. Finally, as many our young people know I enjoy attending concerts, in particular Taylor Swift!

Thank you Hannah!