Championing Diversity: Michael Gordon’s unconventional route into education

“My career began as a personal trainer, but my path took a turn when I was asked by a friend involved in criminal justice to participate in a volunteer mentoring project for offenders. I became a Probation Service Officer, and later a coordinator for a peer mentoring project supporting ex-offenders. These roles gave me valuable experience working with various groups, particularly those facing significant challenges, and were important steps in my career towards creating positive change.

“I went on to work as a Service Lead for a national domestic abuse charity before I transitioned into education. I became the Central Area Network Inclusion Manager for 13 schools, focusing on children at risk of exclusion. This exposure to educational settings ultimately led me to Ark Victoria, where I now champion initiatives to foster diversity and inclusion.”

Michael’s personal experiences greatly inform his work. Growing up, he often searched for black role models within his school and community. This quest for representation shaped his aspirations and led him to realise that an inclusive environment in education could have transformed his trajectory. He reflects on how encountering inspiring figures earlier could have encouraged him to pursue teaching sooner.

I am a product of the transformative power of mentoring, and now I use my role at Ark Victoria to support students from challenging backgrounds.

“My experiences of exclusion and rebellion against a system I struggled to understand led to disengagement from school. However, a supportive science teacher who coached rugby became a turning point. This teacher’s genuine interest in my potential created a mentorship that extended beyond academics, allowing me to share my home life struggles and navigate difficult times. I am a product of the transformative power of mentoring, and now I use my role at Ark Victoria to support students from challenging backgrounds.

“Representation is also crucial in creating safe spaces for communities to thrive. In my early career, I experienced discrimination and racism, which went unchallenged. Black History Month is an essential reminder of inclusion, and sparks a crucial conversation about the need for comprehensive black history education throughout the academic year. At Ark Victoria, our Diversity and Inclusion Working Group actively seeks input from staff and students to extend the spirit of Black History Month beyond October. This emphasis on comprehensive black history education ensures we can highlight the contributions of black people in British history.

“I have seen significant strides in promoting diversity in education, but there is still much to do. Increasing black representation among teaching staff and leadership roles is crucial, yet many potential educators hesitate to enter the field due to misperceptions. Cultivating a positive narrative around education is essential, as well as encouraging people from non-traditional educational backgrounds, like me, to join the profession. I know many professionals who would offer students so much. We need to create different pathways for future leaders to develop, and an environment where staff and students are well-represented and empowered.”

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