t e a c h e r s a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e
Meet the teacher We quizzed some of Bath’s teachers and asked - so, what sets you apart from the rest?
david lee
Deputy Head of Prep School Stonar School; 01225 478478 www.stonarschool.com How does your school differ from others? The consideration, care and respect that the children in the school display for each other is as unique as our global perspective, 80 acres of parkland and gardens, and renowned equestrian centre. What are the qualities of a good teacher? Passion – for their students, subject/s, teaching and school. Being reflective and open minded, embracing change, taking risks, a willingness to collaborate, consistency, empathy, resilience, organisation and communicating effectively. Of course, a sense of humour also helps! What do you most enjoy about teaching? Because education is always evolving, I feel that I am constantly learning and developing new skills. Therefore, I feel very fortunate that life always seems interesting and exciting. At the same time there isn’t another job on the planet with so many opportunities to profoundly impact the lives of young people. What advice would you give your 10-year-old self? Embrace every opportunity you are given - you don’t have to do what everyone else is doing and keep tremendously interested in as much as possible.
100 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Sarah James
Head of Pre-Prep The Paragon School 01225 310837 www.paragonschool.co.uk How does your school differ from others? You just need to walk through the doors at The Paragon to know this is a very special school. It has a unique feel which visitors always comment on, one that is friendly, welcoming, yet purposeful. This is a school where happy children engage in their learning with excitement and joy. What do you enjoy most about teaching? I love my job! Being in the classroom is an amazing place to be. It is a privilege to watch as the youngest children find joy and excitement in learning something new, seeing their faces light up as they master a challenge. Every day is an exciting journey, you never know what it may bring. Even after 20 years of teaching, I still look forward to each day. What are the qualities of a good teacher? Warm, welcoming, caring, flexible and able to think on your feet. What advice would you give your 10 year old self? Always believe in yourself and have the confidence you are doing the right thing. Don’t worry too much about what others think.
John Davies
Deputy Head, Academic Kingswood School 01225 734210 www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk What are the qualities of a good teacher? The best teachers are those that do the fundamental things well, every day. And by fundamental things, I mean sharply-focused and engaging explanations matched with meaningful and challenging opportunities for students to practise new skills and knowledge. Good teachers do this every day. What are you views on homework? We know from research that homework can be hugely beneficial to senior school students. I do understand, though, that homework can also be a burden and can take away family or leisure time. My litmus test for good homework is that it should be sharply focused and should directly result in the student making progress. What do you most enjoy about teaching? I love that every day is different and that, as a teacher, you come to work each day prepared for surprises, challenges and mini-victories. I believe that if the world is going to resolve some of its most challenging problems, it lies in the influence of teachers to raise up generations of young adults who are ready to make a difference through innovation and radical compassion.
Mike Blaikley
Prior Park College Phone 01225 835353 www.priorparkcollege.com How did you get into teaching? It has been a circuitous route! I gained a first class degree from Oxford in Classics, qualified as a chartered accountant in London, worked in retail management for three years before becoming a maths teacher. What makes a good teacher? There are too many ingredients – enthusiasm; love of the subject; being able to build great teacher/ student relationships; humour; inventiveness; patience; and a hint of eccentricity! How is your school different? Very simply it has soul. It has huge depth of care for the whole person, academic, pastoral, physical, and spiritual. It allows the individual to discover their own strengths and achieve their goals, rather than straight-jacketing them by an educational norm. Is teaching a vocation? Absolutely. I would have been the most sceptical had you asked me ten years ago, but there is something hugely profound in finding a job where every aspect of your character and experience is drawn upon. To be able to walk alongside, mentor, tutor and teach Prior Park’s amazing student body is a privilege.