After completing a degree in French and Spanish, I began teaching Spanish at the University of Exeter, while studying a Masters in Translation Studies.  I then completed my PGCE in 2014 at the University of Exeter and began my career in a school in Plymouth teaching French and Spanish across Key Stages 3 to 5, before taking advantage of the transferrable nature of a teaching qualification and moving to teach English in a secondary school in Mexico.

Following this time abroad, I returned to Devon and was appointed Head of Modern Languages at Ivybridge Community College.  Since working at the College I have been impressed by the overwhelmingly positive atmosphere, energy and sense of community, something really special given the size of the school.  I have also been impressed by the many enrichment opportunities and have enjoyed playing a role in this from a Languages perspective, with trips abroad and forming links with schools in Spain and Mexico.  I am privileged to be working in a department that has the capacity and drive from staff to support this.

Ivybridge Community College is a fantastic school in which to continue developing professionally and, in addition to whole College CPD that is underpinned by a clear Teaching and Learning strategy, I have been grateful to attend a number of subject specific conferences as well as take part in an Ambitions Institute Middle Leadership Programme.  Being part of a Multi Academy Trust has also provided opportunities to form good working relationships with colleagues from other WeST schools. 

The students, staff and opportunities at Ivybridge Community College make me proud to be part of the school community. 

April 2021

Working at Ivybridge Community College has provided me with a range of enriching experiences and opportunities throughout my first three years of teaching.  I returned to the College as an NQT in 2018, having previously been a student there from 2006-2013.

The College is a unique learning environment, which is underpinned by a true sense of community amongst staff and students.  This community feeling is echoed within our staff working parties, which I have enjoyed being a member of since my first year at the College; where we work collaboratively to support areas of College improvement.

During my NQT year, I completed my Masters in Education at the University of Cambridge.  This opportunity to combine academic research and my teaching practice made me truly appreciate the value of evidence-based practice.  Building on this experience, I am currently studying a Doctorate of Education at the University of Exeter.  This experience has led me to lead our Disciplined Enquiry CPD pathway at the College, which supports and encourages teachers to engage in their own research.

During my third year at Ivybridge Community College, I joined the Middle Leadership Team as Acting Head of Social Science.  This has enabled me to work closely with, and learn from, our experienced Middle Leadership Team, engaging in curriculum development and our College Learning Communities.

Ivybridge Community College is a cohesive and supportive community which offers a true breadth of inspiring opportunities for both students and staff.

April 2021

After completing a degree in Psychology and a PGCE in Secondary Science, I started working at Ivybridge Community College as an NQT teaching KS3 Science, Psychology and Sociology A Level.

As I progressed throughout my first couple years of teaching I knew my passion lay with my degree subject and I was able to secure an Assistant Head of Department position (Human Sciences) in my third year of teaching and I have since been promoted to Head of Social Sciences.

I have had some excellent professional development opportunities at Ivybridge Community College; from working as a Mentor for trainee teachers and NQTS, completing the NPQML course, to finishing a Master’s degree in Education in my third year of teaching.

I have been privileged to facilitate OLEVI courses across our MAT, such as the Outstanding Teachers Programme.  I have been able to work closely with the Teaching and Learning Team, and I am very proud of the constant high standard of lessons and CPD opportunities delivered at Ivybridge. For example, I have recently been involved with developing a CPD strand called ‘Professional Conversations’, which aims to encourage staff to bring the techniques from coaching into their everyday practice.

Ivybridge is a very fast-paced College, with high expectations of both students and staff, but this allows for many professional development opportunities and an engaging and well planned curriculum for students.

April 2021