I began my career in education in 2006 after graduating from the University of Hull with a degree in Physical Education and Sports and Exercise Science with Biological Science BSc (Hons). I started working at Communication Specialist College Doncaster as an Education and Training Support Worker supporting young people with special educational needs. I was able to fulfil my ambition of teaching PE and Sport Studies beginning in 2007, completing my PGCE in 2008. I have a commitment to continuing professional development and am due to complete my Masters Degree in Education in September 2014. I aim to continue my professional development in the future and would love to conduct research on project based learning.
I have always had a keen interest in project based learning and in my previous post led a multidisciplinary project in which students planned and developed an international sensory music event. The project also aimed to address issues that affect young people and those with sensory impairment, such as decreased opportunities for employment and cultural segregation. The project was hugely successful and it quickly became clear that this was the way I wanted to teach in the future.
I couldn’t be more excited to begin working with the students of XP and look forward to seeing them learn and develop more than they thought possible as we guide them through challenging and inspirational learning expeditions.
When I’m not at work I enjoy spending time with my wife and my dogs George and Ben. I love the outdoors and enjoy hiking and camping and try to get out as much as I can. I am a keen sportsman and love to play Football and Badminton, and like to exercise as much a possible. Sometimes I even get time to travel and read the odd book or two!
The culminating event to our staff induction is an Educator-Led Conference, where staff prepare speeches, critiqued by their peers, which answer the guiding question:
“What kind of person, and what kind of educator do I want to be at XP?”
Below is Mr Voltaire’s speech: