With the end of the year now in sight, we're taking some time out to look back on teaching in Portsmouth during 2020.

We caught up with Councillor Suzy Horton, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council as she shares her thoughts on teaching in the city over the past year. 

2020 has certainly been an unprecedented year for many people. How do you think teaching has changed in the last year? 

In many ways teaching is the same; supporting children to learn and develop.

It's just looked very different this year. There's more digital and remote learning, different classroom arrangements and some changes to moving around the school, but at the end of the day, it's still about teachers and learners. 

Has there been a standout moment for you in 2020 that showcases how amazing Portsmouth's teachers, support staff and leaders are? 

I think the first day back after the summer holiday was a special day. To see so many children back at school in a safe, albeit, different environment was a testament to the months and months of hard work by everyone in every school community.  

Looking forward, what are your thoughts on teaching in Portsmouth in the future?

Portsmouth is full of good and outstanding schools as highlighted by OFSTED. Those judgements are based on seeing good and outstanding practice. I am excited about the future; a future that takes all the silver linings from the pandemic, builds on all the successes from before and ensures that we have the highest aspirations for every child in the city.  

Do you have a special message for Portsmouth's teachers, support staff and leaders?  

Thank you doesn't seem to be enough to convey my appreciation to every member of the school community in every school. I have made it my business to work every day to truly understand what you have all faced and achieved. I am not surprised by what you have all done but I am nevertheless grateful on behalf of the council for your continued efforts.  

Looking ahead to 2021

If you want to join Portsmouth's teaching community, use Teach Portsmouth's route finder to help you discover how to become part of the profession.