Now in its fourth year, the Gordon’s-CET partnership has evolved into a whole-school leadership programme, where those in positions of responsibility from Zambia, Nigeria, Cameroon, Trinidad and Tobago and the Bahamas were invited by CET to join forces with teachers from Gordon’s. These teachers from across the globe provided key information prior to the launch about their professional development needs, with topics including classroom management, leading staff and increasing literacy. Closely matched by Kelly Hurley, Assistant Headteacher at Gordon’s, in 8 different pairings, for the last two terms, Gordon’s teachers have mentored and facilitated the learning, working with partners to build knowledge and skills on the chosen foci.
Meet Matt Gullick, Head of Physical Education at Gordon’s School. For the past two years, he has been an active member of the Gordon’s-CET partnership, being matched with teachers in Trinidad and Tobago, and this year, working with 2 schools. As the partnership reaches its climax, he tells us how and why the partnership has been influential.
After 18 years in secondary education, I’ve experienced my fair share of professional development. Some has been useful, some forgettable, but very few have had the lasting impact that the Commonwealth Education Partnership has had on me, both professionally and personally.
So, what does this partnership actually look like?
At its heart, it’s a values-driven, international community of educators, from headteachers and classroom teachers to consultants and school leaders, all united by a shared commitment to improving education for young people across the Commonwealth. It’s not a programme you “complete”; it’s an ongoing, collaborative journey.
The Power of People and Purpose
We meet regularly online, and there’s a consistency and relational strength to those sessions that’s quite rare. These aren’t just webinars or tick-box exercises, they’re meaningful conversations. We explore real challenges and possibilities within our schools, always with a view to practical application and long-term change.
What We Talk About – and Why It Matters
The topics we cover are wide-ranging: inclusive pedagogy, leadership for equity, curriculum design, teacher development, community engagement… all grounded in real school contexts. It’s never theoretical for theory’s sake, it’s about what actually works. And because we’re drawing from such a rich pool of global experience, we’re constantly learning from one another in ways that challenge and inspire.
Why It’s Different – and Why It Matters
What have I gained? Professionally, I’ve grown as both a teacher and a leader. I’ve reflected more deeply, listened more intently, and led more thoughtfully. I’ve brought new ideas back to my own context, ideas that are rooted in equity, sustainability and, crucially, the voices of the people they’re meant to serve. Personally, it’s been a bit of a reset. It’s reminded me why I came into education in the first place. The partnership has reconnected me with the why, not just the what and how. It’s reaffirmed that teaching is, at its best, a moral and collective endeavour.
Would I Recommend It? Absolutely.
If you’re looking for professional development that actually stretches you, that makes you think differently, lead better, and connect more deeply with your purpose, then this is the space for you. It’s not about perfection or prescription. It’s about partnership. And in today’s ever-shifting educational landscape, that kind of connection is more valuable
Now, watch Matt as he tells us more about his partnership experience.
We thank Matt and all the other Gordon’s teachers for their hard work this year. We look forward to working with you again next academic year!
Interested in this opportunity? Visit our partner page today.
