Where are you from originally?Preston, Lancashire, in the UK. What is your story of becoming a teacher?I moved to Leeds to do my undergraduate degree in English with Creative Writing, progressing to Liverpool to do my PGCE in secondary teaching. I studied and trained to teach in Manchester at a public school.For 4 years, I taught English in a secondary school, both KS3 and KS4, passing many students through their GCSEs. I have also had enhancement courses in KS5 and given talks on linguistics & creative writing as a guest speaker! What are your hobbies?I love to run, hike, ski and read - anything with my best friends, Ellen and Beth! How did you decide to move to Poland?I took a solo trip to Wrocław in 2024 and fell in love with the culture… and the bakeries! I also developed a pierogi addiction. The pace of life is slower and calmer. I instantly got home and searched for teaching roles in Poland. I was very scared to move countries, but I was brave enough to just do it! Any memorable moments from your career? The most heartwarming moment was when I left my last school, my desk was covered in letters, cards and sunflowers.I used a sunflower analogy with them, that they need some light and encouragement to grow, even when it seems difficult and a little dark. And we must always make the right decisions and face the brightness! I had over 30 bouquets of sunflowers from my classes! What is your favourite part of the job?Being there for students. They are so perceptive, and it is a great honour to be their safe person - I acknowledge that my job is more than passing on knowledge and developing skills, you’re there for them holistically too. I want to be a positive role model for the younger generation. Any hidden talents?Playing the violin! Also, I can’t read one book at a time; I will alternate between a maximum of 5 in a week, depending upon my mood! One film you would always recommend?Shrek, sick, sad, and happy - Shrek has to be on. I can also quote it with an impeccable Scottish accent- much to my friends' annoyance!
