The Teacher-Educator

Gavin Lumsden aka The Teacher-Educator is a lifelong learner, passionate teacher, and the Director of Education for Essential Teaching UK. With a Certificate in Education and a BA (Hons) in Education from the University of Surrey, Gavin achieved Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status in 2011. His commitment to education led him to co-found Essential Teaching UK in 2015, where he has been instrumental in developing Initial Teacher Training pathways and specialising in Coaching for Education to support schools and colleges alike.
Gavin is particularly interested in exploring new teaching methods and disruptive ideas that can enhance learning and learner engagement. He enjoys discussing the latest research and trends in education and sharing best practices with others. Gavin's dedication to education is matched by his enthusiasm for mentoring and staff development, helping teachers learn with and from one another.
Gavin has been teaching in the FE and Skills sector since 2007 and is an inspiring figure in the field of education, Gavin provides expert guidance to colleges in enhancing their educational quality and student experience. His work has impacted over 40 schools and colleges, where he has helped attract and retain top teaching talent, develop learning cultures, and create classroom confidence and growth mindsets.

Gavin also holds two positions within the Royal Navy Reserve, where he applies his skills in training assurance and executive leadership. His core competencies include education consulting, teacher training, coaching for education, professional development, learner experience, coaching and mentoring, and staff development.
In addition to his leadership roles, Gavin has developed a new Coaching for Education Programme, a route into teaching called Teach FE, and co-authored the book “Achieving your Diploma in Teaching (FE & Skills)” with best-selling author Ann Gravells. His mission is to promote learning and build the capacity for change within the educational community.
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The Teacher-Educator Consultancy - Elevating Education Through Expertise
There is absolutely nothing more crucial to the success of your college or school than how your teachers help learners learn. At Essential Teaching UK Ltd, we understand that learning is the vehicle by which your college and school gain a competitive edge, attract and retain the best teaching talent, and empower support staff, teachers and senior leaders to successfully navigate opportunities and challenges.

The Teacher-Educator has established comprehensive Learning & Development Programmes designed to provide progressive, professional development for senior leaders, teachers, and support staff. His focus encompasses facilitating teaching and learning practice, coaching for education, and ensuring theory is put into practice. He engages with the entire college or school community to support teachers, support staff and their learners effectively and alongside the sharing of best practice pedagogy.
Our programmes have become critical talent management tools, helping college and school leaders build a robust talent pipeline. Delivered by strong pedagogic principles with a drive and focus on learning outcomes, these initiatives are tailored to fit any educational environment.
Our aim at Essential Teaching UK is to support colleges, schools and other organisations by helping them retain, refresh, and refocus their staff. We are proud to deliver our services through a reputation built on excellence and word-of-mouth recommendations. The Teacher-Educator collaborates with colleges and schools to elevate the quality of teaching and learning, ensuring every learner has the opportunity to succeed.
Discover how The Teacher-Educator can transform your educational environment by connecting with us today. Together, we can create a brighter future for your college or school, your teachers, and your learners.