Mandela College

What subject do you teach?

Maths and I have also taught IT and Computing in the past.

How long have you been at The Leigh?

I have been at The Leigh for 2.5 years and also taught in two schools before that.

What sorts of things do you do in your job?

I am Head of Chaucer College, so work alongside Mr Piggott, Mrs Taylor and Ms Cockle. I also lead on data and reporting across the whole Academy.

Do you have any children or any pets?

I have two daughters and one rabbit called Bailey.

What is your favourite colour?

Blue is my favourite colour.

What is your favourite sport?

I like lots of different sports, but I love athletics and running, especially cross country. I take part in a variety of distances, from 5km up to marathons. I also love skiing.

Name one thing you have enjoyed about lockdown?

Spending time at home with my girls has been lovely.

What have you missed most during lockdown?

Seeing my friends and family. I've missed training with my friends and racing. I've also missed eating out.

What job did you want to have when you were younger?

Ski Instructor, chalet host, nurse.

What advice would you give a new Year 7 student starting at The Leigh?

You will get to know your way around the building really quickly (and faster than any new staff)! We are always here to listen and support you.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My mighty girls (my daughters), continue to be my inspiration. I have them at the forefront of everything I do. The way they have coped in the lockdown has been amazing.

What subject do you teach?

Science, Healthy Minds and one day hopefully PE.

How long have you been at The Leigh?

This is my 3rd year at The Leigh Academy

What sorts of things do you do in your job?

I am the Assistant Head of College for Chaucer College. Working with Mrs Forde, Mrs Taylor and Ms Cockle. I am also 2nd in charge of Behaviour & Attitudes across the Academy.

Do you have any children or any pets?

I have 2 pets. Becks the Cavachon (named after David Beckham) and Dolly the Bichon Frise.

What is your favourite colour?

BLUE - Pride of East Anglia. The mighty blues Ipswich Town.

What is your favourite sport?

Football & rugby but love to run and cycle as well.

Name one thing you have enjoyed about lockdown?

I have really enjoyed having some extra time with my 2 dogs Dolly & Becks and my fiance.

What have you missed most during lockdown?

Krispy Kremes (and seeing friends and family)

What job did you want to have when you were younger?

A Royal Marines Commando/sportsman.

What advice would you give a new Year 7 student starting at The Leigh?

- RESPECT yourself and everyone else.

- Be RESILIENT in all that you do.

- Take RESPONSIBILITY for yourself and your learning.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

Elon Musk for his ability to push the boundaries of science and engineering and is potentially one of the most innovative human beings on the planet and more recently Professor Chris Whitty who has epitomised the pursuit for scientific excellence and knowledge.

How long have you been at The Leigh?

I have been at The Leigh Academy for 14 Years.

What sorts of things do you do in your job?

I have always worked with young people. Before working at The Leigh Academy I worked in a Young Offenders Prison. I am not a teacher so in my job I am always here to help and support the students. I will monitor attendance and behaviour. I am there if students are worried and need to talk or if they need help dealing with a situation.

Do you have any children or any pets?

I have two children. My son is at the Leigh Academy and my daughter is joining in September. I have a dog called Bolt and two guinea pigs called Cookie and Nugget.

What is your favourite colour?

Red.

What is your favourite sport?

I am not a massive sports fan.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My mum is my inspiration. She is an amazing lady. She started in the NHS at the age of 15 working in the operating theatres as a theatre nurse. She progressed to be a theatre sister. She retired from nursing after being in the NHS for 50 years.

Name one thing you have enjoyed about lockdown?

I have loved being with my children.

What have you missed most during lockdown?

I have missed my family, friends and being at The Leigh Academy with all my students.

What job did you want to have when you were younger?

When I was younger I wanted to go into a career with art. When I left school I went to Art College for 3 Years.

What advice would you give a new Year 7 student starting at The Leigh?

I would say that. Although it might seem a little scary to begin with, you will be fine. There are people all around that want to help and support you with any worries you may have. The building is easier to find your way around than you think. But most of all I would say enjoy it.