My overriding passion is engaging young people in the democratic process and supporting them to become active, responsible and well-informed citizens. Before teaching, I worked for the British Youth Council, and chaired the Board of Trustees of the UK Youth Parliament, and have also served as a trustee of the Citizenship Foundation. I am therefore particularly excited to be teaching Global Politics and Global Perspectives at BISW; both courses are designed to immerse students in the world around them and give them the tools to be effective participants in it.
Outside of school, I enjoy theatre, music, walking and playing softball. Whilst I can’t, alas, watch the mighty Huddersfield Town anymore I’ve been able to replace that with following the Caps, the Nats, the Wizards and DC United, which keeps me entertained. I’ve also been able to indulge my interest in American politics, which is my academic specialism, and feel very fortunate to be in the United States through such ‘interesting’ political times! In the UK, I also did quite a bit of voluntary work; I mentor young people from non-traditional backgrounds through their applications to Oxbridge and for several years have been a special constable in the Metropolitan Police.
I greatly appreciate the opportunity to lead the Humanities Department at BISW. As well as working with fantastic colleagues and wonderful students, from a rich variety of backgrounds, I am attracted to the School’s focus on personalised learning and ensuring that all students, regardless of their ability, make good progress and realise their potential.