I have worked in Secondary schools teaching Science for the past three years. In addition to my teaching experience, being the second oldest of seven siblings (aged between 9 and 29) has meant that I am patient and understand different developmental stages. I am incredibly proud of students grasping a difficult concept or achieving a milestone. These personal qualities and understanding of the importance of education make me passionate about tutoring.
My fascination for Science started from an early age, asking, ‘Why?’ Why do you get warts when you pick up frogs? Why can I see someone hammer a box in the distance but then hear it a moment later? For every question, Science can help us understand it.
Once I had completed my A levels in Biology, Psychology, Sociology and English literature, I then went on to study Zoology and Biology at Bangor University in Wales. I was also able to indulge in everything Science: dissections, surveys, field trips, microscopy and much more! While studying, I also gained my mariner qualification and boating licence and tried my hand at archery (it was not a bullseye) and mindfulness. Safe to say, education is a gateway to experiences and opportunities.
Before teaching, I volunteered for a project in Malaysia, where I worked in the rainforest with wild primates. Here I conducted ecological and behavioural studies which contributed to the conservation of several endangered species. While in Penang, I assisted in a bio-blitz, where many specialists gathered to carry out a quick survey of all the species within a particular area. Although I was the ‘small mammal guy,’ I also assisted with bat, entomological, botanical and primate surveys, some of which were conducted at night. It was an amazing experience and a rare glimpse into a different world!
We are looking to Science to solve some of our most significant challenges in today’s world. Many of these solutions come in the form of innovative technologies, such as those used in medicine, agriculture, conservation, green technologies, and space exploration, to name a few. Understanding and participating in discussions is fundamental for young people who wish to interact with this aspect of society.
I always say to my students; your brain needs to make mistakes to learn. And if you feel embarrassed, don’t worry about it; that is just your brain making sure you don’t make the same mistake twice.
These days I can be found hiking, on my allotment, furthering my yoga and meditation practices, at the gym, spending way too long in Nero, playing chess, climbing and spending time with family and friends.
