ACADEMIC/PROFESSIONAL REFERENCE FORM
Full name of Applicant Lewis Keen
Of course, they have applied for PGCE
Campus/Site Online
ACADEMIC/PROFESSIONAL REFERENCE FORM
(i) Intellectual Capacity
Lewis Keen demonstrates strong intellectual capacity in his role as an ESL teacher, regularly
applying critical thinking to enhance learning outcomes. He systematically analyses
assessment data to identify trends and target areas for improvement, particularly in
vocabulary acquisition, grammar, and reading comprehension. For instance, after evaluating
students' performance in sentence construction and reading fluency, Lewis thoughtfully
redesigned a sequence of scaffolded tasks, resulting in measurable progress across learners
with varying proficiency levels.
(ii) Powers of Expression in Spoken and Written English
Lewis communicates with clarity and precision in both spoken and written English. His
classroom instructions are concise, engaging, and well-pitched to the developmental level of
his learners, ensuring accessibility and comprehension. His written work—including lesson
planning, learner feedback, and professional correspondence—is consistently well-organised,
articulate, and reflective of high professional standards.
(iii) Character and Personality
Lewis is a warm, approachable, and dependable educator who builds trusting relationships
with his students and colleagues alike. His calm and caring nature helps to create a positive
and inclusive classroom environment, where students feel safe to express themselves and take
intellectual risks. He embodies empathy and cultural sensitivity—qualities essential for
supporting ESL learners—and contributes meaningfully to the school community through his
collaborative spirit.
(iv) Interest, Commitment, and Motivation to Academic Study
Lewis is deeply committed to his ongoing professional development. He actively participates in
training focused on ESL methodologies, inclusive education, and learner engagement
strategies. He is intellectually curious and regularly integrates new pedagogical insights into his
teaching practice, demonstrating a clear motivation to grow academically and professionally.
(v) Professional/Academic Suitability and Ability to Benefit from the Course
Lewis is exceptionally well-suited for postgraduate study in education. His expertise in
language instruction, curriculum adaptation, and learner engagement positions him to thrive in
a PGCE/iPGCE programme. He is a reflective practitioner with a strong foundation in teaching
and a genuine desire to deepen his knowledge and expertise. His collaborative mindset and
dedication to inclusive teaching would enable him to both benefit from and contribute
meaningfully to the course.
(vi) Preparedness for Master’s-Level Work
Despite a demanding teaching schedule, Lewis recently undertook a classroom-based inquiry
to explore the impact of storytelling and role-playing on ESL learners’ speaking confidence. His
written report was thoughtful, well-researched, and demonstrated strong analytical skills as
well as an ability to link theory with practice. This initiative clearly reflects his readiness for the
academic rigour and independent study expected at the Master’s level.
Signed
Print Name Mr Peter Li
Date 10 Sept 2025
Designation/Job Title Head of School
Name and Address of establishment Shanghai High School
Contact telephone number +86483922321
Email address j6814340@[Link]