Case Studies

What set you on the path to teaching?

When I graduated with a degree in Music, I left university and became a performer in a very well known orchestra in Manchester.  

I thoroughly enjoyed my time travelling around the world but soon realised that I couldn't continue this forever.  A friend of mine who I met one day for lunch talked to me about teaching.  He was and still is, a brilliant teacher.  I remember his face lighting up as he spoke about the work he does and the students he helps.  It seemed like a great job to get into, so I investigated, applied and here I am!

What was it that attracted you to working at Springwest Academy?

I wanted to move from where I was living (Durham City) to London.  I replied to an advert in the local education paper for teachers to work in the London area.  I had an interview and joined the school over 20 years ago.  When I first came in, I felt the warmth of Joan, the receptionist.  She was incredibly friendly and made sure I had everything I needed. I met students who were kind and thoughtful, I was introduced to staff who were happy, excited and intelligent.  I loved what I saw.  For me, nothing has changed to this day.  I still feel the warmth of the receptionists, I still meet kind and thoughtful students and I still work with happy, excited and intelligent staff.

What do you enjoy about being an Assistant Principal?

I have a brilliant time as an Assistant Principal.  I have lots to do and lots of responsibility but I also have a great team of people who I work with, who help me meet a range of deadlines, and do all kinds of really exciting things each day that help students learn and teachers teach.

I get to see the very best of our Key Stage 3 students and I'm also able to support those students who might find school at the minute difficult and challenging for a range of different reasons.

I get the chance to speak to and meet many families - this is a lovely part of my role as I'm able to reassure families that Springwest is the place to be.

What do you like most about teaching Maths?

For me, maths is a life skill of incredible importance.  We cannot survive without the knowledge of numbers and formulas at whatever level.  Confidence in maths is a beautiful thing to witness.  

When students are confident, they are happy.  When they are happy they feel safe and when they feel safe they take leaps and they take chances, and yes, sometimes, they make mistakes.  But we know that mistakes are key learning moments and these moments are magical in anyone’s development.

Maths counts and because it counts, it’s absolutely vital to each and everyone of us.