Even before James graduated from Edinburgh University, he had started to build a career working with children. While studying, he was teaching swimming to children. Upon graduation with MA in Business Studies, James then managed Scotland's largest swimming school, at the same time volunteering as a swimming coach for Warrender Baths Club. The next career move still involved working with children and adults, whereby he managed a maths and English tuition centre, during this time he was taking any opportunity to travel in Asia. This was when James decided to go back to university to gain a PGDE in primary teaching so that he could pursue a teaching career internationally.
James has since taught primary students in Scotland and more recently, before moving to BVIS, he worked in Bangkok teaching year 5.
Outside of school James is a keen sports person, he enjoys any competitive sport, particularly badminton. He is fascinated by history and culture and takes time to travel and immerse himself in different cultures.