What is your educational background?
I studied international law at the University of Sheffield, and spent a year studying at the University of Athens in Greece. After this, I qualified as a solicitor and became a family lawyer. Two years in, I decided I wasn’t making the difference to young people that I wanted to and I retrained as a teacher.
What made you decide to be a teacher?
Alongside working in family law, I became more involved in education and the lives of young people. I was a school governor and worked with a couple of young peoples’ charities, which helped children whose parents had separated. After working closely with some local schools in enterprise, I realised that education was the right environment for me.
What skills do you feel English gives to your pupils?
Communication is something that has always been important to me and to my job, and everyone has the right to his or her say, and to be able to communicate that effectively.
English is absolutely essential to make sure that pupils are equipped with the tools they need to communicate in life, both socially and in a work environment. I’ve always been passionate about English
It encourages skills like reading between the lines and being able to spot details.
What do you enjoy most about being a teacher at Malet Lambert?
I absolutely love Malet Lambert – it’s more of a family than a school community. Everyone is looking out for each other, both the staff and the school pupils. There’s such a strong competitive ethos with the introduction of the new house system, yet everyone still has each other’s back. It’s a fantastic school to be a part of.
Do you immerse yourself in English outside of school?
I’m an avid reader, which is a great source of learning and a great source of entertainment. It gives you a wider view of the world. I’m also a musician and I play saxophone and clarinet. Alongside this, I take part in public speaking competitions.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
I always wanted to be a lawyer and make a difference. Originally I wanted to be an international lawyer and travel the world, seeing new countries.
What advice would you give to pupils who would like a career in English?
Nothing is out of reach - follow your dreams! Ignore those who say you can’t do something - you can! Take as much advice off as many people as possible and take any opportunity given to you; embrace it and learn new things.