BET YOU DIDN’T KNOW… BOHUNT WORTHING STUDENT TEACHER INTERVIEW

TEACHER: FRAN TIMMS, SCIENCE TEACHER AND LEAD PRACTITIONER FOR BET AND STUDENT: LOUISE, Y9

LOUISE TO FRAN:

What inspired you to be a teacher?

I enjoyed learning about science at school. I did some voluntary work in education and loved it.

If you weren’t a teacher, what would you be?

An Epidemiologist – that is someone who studies diseases and why they are occurring.

What’s the best part of your job?

Every day is different. I enjoy working with young people and helping them to develop to full potential.

Who are your heroines/heroes?

I have two; Juno Dawson – she’s an author and journalist and is helping to reduce the stigma for LGBT young adults. And Deborah Francis-White she’s a feminist writer and broadcaster who talks about our goals as a 21st century feminist and the hypocrisies and insecurities that undermine them.

Why did you choose to teach at Bohunt School Worthing?

I was working at a local secondary school when I left to take a risk at a new school; it was a real opportunity to be part of developing a new school from the beginning and have the support of the other schools in the Trust.

Tell me a little about a teacher that inspired you

My music teacher at school, Miss Clark was inspiring. I played the viola and was bad at theory. She was inspirational and is now a teacher at Liphook - small world!

What is one exciting teaching method you use?

This year I have been showcasing pieces of student’s work; not always the best pieces but the work that shows the student has worked their hardest and progressed the most.

What are your thoughts on education today?

It’s an interesting time to be in education; we are more informed, there is more focus on the curriculum and aiming to reduce workload.

Fran To Louise

What are your strengths?

I’m talented at art and creative thinking. What are your weaknesses?

Languages - Mandarin. But I’m going to do my best to get better at it.

Give one example of something you enjoy, respect or have achieved at Bohunt School Worthing

I think I’ve become more social and have come out of my comfort zone while at Bohunt.

What or whom inspires you?

I’m inspired by Gordon Ramsey because he is an excellent chef. What are your plans for the future after leaving school? I want to go to college or university to study catering and become a chef.

What is your favourite line from a film/song/book?

It’s a line from the book ‘Wonder’ by R.J. Palacio: “Kinder than is necessary. Because it’s not enough to be kind. One should be kinder than needed.”

What one thing would you change about school life? It is fine as it is, it doesn’t need anything changing!