I've always believed that teaching is an honour - a chance to help shape children's futures and instil a love of learning that stays with them for life. Over the years, I've been privileged to teach in some truly inspiring schools, both in the UK and overseas, and to work with pupils of every age and ability. Each experience has reinforced one simple truth: children flourish when they feel confident, valued and safe to make mistakes.
Much of my career has been spent in the prep school world, working in some of the top schools in the country - and indeed, the world. I was part of the senior management team at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi during the year it won TES International School of the Year. Before that, I taught at Abberley Hall Prep, Ashdown House, and later became Head of Maths and Science at The Elms School, where I was thrilled to see pupils achieving outstanding results and scholarships to leading schools.
My last role was at Lucton School, working across Years 7-11, focusing especially on pupils who need a confidence boost in maths. I've always felt a natural empathy for students who find the subject intimidating - because with the right encouragement, those same pupils often make the biggest strides. My approach is energetic, creative and structured, helping students see the logic behind each topic rather than memorising steps by rote.
Before entering teaching, I worked in industry - in food process development and new product design. Those years taught me how to communicate technical ideas clearly and tactfully, skills that translate beautifully to the classroom. Whether persuading a factory team to adjust a production line or guiding a Year 9 through algebra, the principles are the same: patience, clarity and respect.
Across all my roles - from head of department to pastoral lead - my focus has remained the same: to create a classroom environment where children feel safe to think, question and experiment. Mistakes aren't setbacks; they're stepping stones. In maths especially, confidence is everything. Once a child is brave enough to "have a go", understanding soon follows.
My Educational Philosophy
I try to base my teaching on my favourite educational quote: "A child's mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be lit." That line captures everything I believe about learning - that education should awaken curiosity, not just deliver content. My aim is always to light that spark, to help students see the patterns and beauty in mathematics, and to equip them with confidence that extends far beyond the classroom.
Highlights from My Career
- Over 15 years' teaching experience across prep, senior and sixth-form levels.
- Head of Maths & Science at The Elms School - leading both departments and achieving excellent inspection feedback.
- Senior Management Team at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi - Head of Years 5 & 6, overseeing 223 pupils, winning TES International School of the Year.
- Outstanding lesson observation at Moreton Morrell College - the first ever classroom-based "Outstanding" awarded there.
- Numerous scholarship successes, including pupils achieving top marks in Shrewsbury entrance exams.
Outside the classroom, I have plenty of energy to burn - sometimes literally! I'm a keen equestrian and former county shooting champion, and I've even represented my college in national competitions. These hobbies remind me how important balance is - that enthusiasm, resilience and humour are as valuable in life as they are in learning.
Looking back, I've realised that teaching is less about the subjects we cover and more about the relationships we build. I love seeing students grow - in confidence, curiosity and belief in themselves. That's what drives me, and it's what keeps me passionate about teaching every single day.