I began my teaching career in 1991 after graduating with a B.Ed (Hons) degree in Design Technology from Liverpool John Moores University'. Prior to this, I had completed an apprenticeship in mechanical and production engineering with GEC Ruston Diesels, manufacturing slow and medium speed diesel engines for a variety of applications, including marine, rail and power generation.
I am a conscientious and professional teacher and have taught a range of subjects, including all areas of Design Technology, Maths, Science, Construction, Art and ICT across the secondary age range. During this time, I have mentored trainee teachers in both DT and maths. I have been a primary school governor for 15 years, including seven as Chair of Governors and have delivered DT workshops to the primary age group.
In 2015 I reduced my full-time teaching commitment and completed a commission writing PSHE material for Dimensions Curriculum and became a teacher trainer for Primary Engineer. In 2020, as a result of the challenges presented by covid-19, I returned to teaching full-time, whilst also helping to develop teaching materials for BBC Bitesize. At the start of 2022 I was able to resume a part-time timetable.
I am friendly and approachable with excellent interpersonal skills, thorough and up to date knowledge, vastly experienced working with pupils and adults, using a variety of equipment and materials and in a diverse range of settings.
My 35 years experience of working with pupils in schools, adults in teacher training and previous industrial experience gives me a valuable skillset and realistic understanding of the training needs of teachers and support staff. I fully understand the time constraints on teachers and I am happy to run courses during the school day, evenings or holidays and will always endeavour to make each and every session, relevant, hands on, informative and fun.