Swaledale Alliance System Leaders

Mr Joe Larder

Specialisms	PE Forest School Behaviour Management

I have gained extensive experience in teaching having taught across all age groups within a primary setting. I have been a member of the schools senior leadership team and have successfully led a range of school improvement priorities. With over 8 years of experience at Richmond Methodist Primary and a degree in Sports Coaching, I have gained an in-depth understanding of curriculum development and pupil participation in sports and Physical Education. I have a great passion for sports and the outdoors. I have confidence in the potential of high-quality Physical Education and outdoor provision to act as vehicle for whole-school improvement; physical activity and outdoor learning have a host of benefits for students, including improved academic performance, enhanced physical and mental health, and increased confidence and self-esteem.

Throughout my tenure at RMS, I have had the opportunity to analyse the existing curriculum, develop new methodologies, and provide valuable insights to the school's management. In addition, I have attended countless CPD opportunities to enhance my skills and knowledge in PE and my most recent training has been to support the implementation of the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) approach at my school. As a Level 2 Pivotal Behaviour Coach, I have successfully developed a behaviour blueprint at RMS, which has been very effective in managing student behaviour and developing an alternative behaviour management culture.

Furthermore, I am a trained Forest School and Outdoor Learning leader, and I conduct regular sessions with the students, which they enjoy very much. This has also been reflected in the most recent OFSTED report, which has rated these areas of expertise highly.

With my extensive experience, knowledge and expertise, I am confident that I can contribute to the development of curriculum, provision, and policy activities at other schools in the areas of PE, behavioural management, and Forest Schools.

I look forward to working and collaborating with schools to develop their practice.