Mrs Jo Forbes-Turko

Before Sackville

I have taught full time since gaining my PGCE apart from a two year break where I tried to earn a living as a writer.  I consequently have two unfinished novels, lots of poetry and just one publication – the Channel 4 Macbeth Study Guide to my name. There are also some very well written lesson plans lurking in Hounslow’s Education Department covering road safety issues. I taught first at a large mixed London comprehensive for eight years before becoming Head of English at Knowle Academy. I have worked as an AQA Media Studies Examiner and have worked with students on their 11+ as a private tutor. 

Why I enjoy my subject

With today’s world being dominated by Media consumption I think it is vital that we challenge the ideologies and representations we are being fed. It is easy for the ‘Media’ to mock the subject but by A level we are discussing  the Media as being the fourth estate of our democratic society, as important an influence in our lives as Religion, our legal system and the government.  I believe that it is essential that we notice and question all aspects of film, TV, news, magazines the internet, gaming… I enjoy taking a subject that students love and showing them how it can be explored, developing their own understanding, arguments and evaluations as well as experimenting with practical ideas.

Why I enjoy Sackville

Having spent much of my career teaching classes of 30+ the joy of working with small groups has never left me. Teaching, for me, is all about the partnership with individual students, igniting their interest. At Sackville I am able to identify instantly when my students need a change of direction or an idea repeating. 

My favourite lesson

I can honestly say that I enjoy all of my lessons. The first ones of a school year, where I meet new students are always exciting, however, the last lesson of any term is also a particular favourite.

Other roles

I am currently in charge of Gifted and Talented and Personalised Learning. I have the opportunity to research new ideas and share these with my colleagues. The feeling that Sackville is providing the best approach for each of our students is time consuming but immensely satisfying.

Passions

According to my Mother, children who I babysat when I was 18, used to post their ‘work’ through the door the following day. I think I have always been passionate about teaching. My family however, are at the top of my list, followed, in no particular order, Nia Dance, the sea, reading, real fires, the theatre, all capital cities, the smell of washing dried outside and Strictly Come Dancing.