John Sutter OL 1976, who died aged 67 from cancer of the oesophagus, was a highly respected specialist in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and adult literacy. Throughout his career, he championed social justice in education and promoted respect for migrants learning new languages, earning a reputation as an inspiring teacher, trainer and thinker.

After leaving John Lyon, he went on to study philosophy at the University of York, graduating in 1980, before gaining a TEFL certificate at St Giles College, London, and later a TEFL diploma in Poland. In 1999, he completed an MA in English Language Teaching and Applied Linguistics at King’s College London.

After teaching in Greece and Poland, he went on to train teachers in Ecuador from 1995 to 1997. On returning to the UK, he held senior academic and leadership roles at Hammersmith & West London College, the Open University, London South Bank University’s London Language and Literacy Unit (LLU+), and the University for the Creative Arts, Farnham. From 2011, he was a founding member and director of Learning Unlimited, a not-for-profit social enterprise.

He played a key role in major national projects, including the development of the online Adult ESOL Core Curriculum and the creation of influential teacher education programmes, helping to shape modern ESOL through his rare ability to connect theory with practice. He was also a valued contributor to professional forums and publications, including Language Issues, Reflect and NATECLA News.

Alongside his educational work, he was the leader, guitarist and producer of the Hastings-based reggae band Mighty Sounds. He is remembered for his intellect, dedication and generosity of spirit.

Full article can be found here:  John Sutter obituary | Tefl | The Guardian