Tomorrow, on Friday 26 March we will be saying an extremely fond farewell to our Vice Principal Dr Mark Robinson, who after Easter moves across Teesside to take up a thoroughly deserved promoted position as Head of School at Outwood Academy Bishopsgarth in Stockton.
Dr Robinson joined Hillsview Academy as Vice Principal in January 2017, a key role at an extremely challenging time for the school. He quickly established himself as both an exceptional leader and superb classroom teacher of science, and in particular chemistry. Current and former students who have been taught by him will know he has a gift for explaining tricky concepts patiently and with memorable humour, whilst giving those in his classes the confidence to believe in their abilities. He has always made sure his lessons and students in the classroom get his full attention, whilst juggling his senior leadership role. He is careful to make time for students and staff alike.
Dr Robinson has been instrumental in securing the rapid progress of the academy in his time here, both as Hillsview and in the last two years as Outwood Academy Normanby. He is respected a great deal by his colleagues, as a mentor to many, and as someone who is determined to secure the life chances for the young people in our school community, through his warmth, determination, calm and reassuring interactions, and firm approach too when needed. All who have worked alongside Dr Robinson have learnt much and developed as a result. We know he will take his love for school improvement and positive experiences with him as he moves on to lead Outwood Bishopsgarth.
As well as deputising for Mr Wappat, Dr Robinson has led on all aspects of the school curriculum, timetable and guided pathways processes, as well as supporting the integrity of our GCSE and other examinations. He has overseen our drive to raise attendance as well as many other aspects of school life during his time with us.
A familiar face for many on the main gate at the beginning and end of school, students and staff alike will miss his life saving road crossing skills, his dry wit, presence and the difference he makes in the classroom. But of course we are proud of what he has achieved and his well earned next steps.
We wish Dr Robinson all the very best in his new role. We know he will be amazing.
