INTERVIEW with
Mr Jones
When did you start at Arnold School? I started as Director of PE at Arnold on 1st January 1998. Moving ‘up North’ was a big step for me and my family, but one I’m glad we made.
What inspired you to become a teacher? I had a very positive experience of PE and sport at school, with some excellent teachers who had a big impact on me. I wanted to recreate these opportunities for others. I went to Borough Road College, West London Institute where I studied a BEd in Physical Education.
What are your favourite school memories? I remember Arnold’s friendly atmosphere when I first attended my interview. I was fortunate to help with the design of the Procter Sports Hall and Centenary Complex before I started at Arnold, although it meant no indoor facility for 12 months as the building work took place. Being part of the sporting development of so many young people will always be a fond memory. Whilst my background was predominantly rugby, I encouraged students to find the activity that best
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suited them and that they enjoyed so they would continue to be involved after leaving school. That said, it was always essential to have staff willing to take and assist with the wide range of activities we offered, and I was very grateful to them. The Sports Days at Stanley Park were great House events, with the staff relays demonstrating the willingness of colleagues to be involved. The school trips and sports tours were always something I really enjoyed. The experiences and memories for all those that travelled will last a lifetime. Spending time away from family was not always easy when on school trips, so travelling to Australia on the 2005 hockey tour as a family was a great experience for us all. I always accompanied my Year 7 form to Glenridding, which I loved. The sevens season in March was always hectic but enjoyable. As a party leader/tour manager I always planned to go off the beaten track away from the usual tourist destinations. Consequently, I was fortunate to visit some wonderful places and countries with fantastic staff, which was always the key. If the staff had a good time, it generally meant that the students were toeing the line … although not on all occasions! Many of my best memories, therefore, are from distant places. Some of the highlights include Rorkes Drift in South Africa and the hospitality
